New YMCA set to break ground in the Lowcountry soon. Here’s where and when
The James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA is finally breaking ground this week.
This new facility is all a part of the East Argent development project that was announced in 2017 and referred to as the largest planned development in Hardeeville’s history.
The James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA was originally planned to begin construction around December 2022, but a representative for the Beaufort-Jasper YMCA stated that due to “permitting issues,” breaking ground was postponed.
This project has been in the works since 2021 by the City of Hardeeville and the master plan for the facility was approved in May 2023.
Now, almost two years later, the facility will officially break ground at 11010 East Argent Parkway in Ridgeland.
Aside from the new YMCA facility, the East Argent development project as a whole has plans to add nearly 10,000 homes and apartments, 1.5 million square feet of retail and office space and 1,330 acres of passive and recreational park space.
How much will this project cost?
All YMCAs operate as their own nonprofit organizations and depend on grants and donations to fund their facilities. There are over 2,500 existing locations across the country.
Jack Fisher, CEO and founder of Preserve Communities, donated 20 acres from the East Argent development to the Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry for the project. In 2019, Fisher founded the James Fisher Memorial Foundation to honor his late son.
According to information from the website of U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-Columbia, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. the YMCA project is also supported by federal money from the 2023 spending package, with $1.5 million geared toward this facility.
The facility is also one of the recipients of a $12.7 million loan from the Department of Agriculture for Jasper County projects.
This project is also dependent on donors and contributions to the YMCA.
What will this location include?
The James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA in Jasper County is expected to include:
Aquatics Complex
Wellness Center
Group Exercise Studio
Cafe
Certified Preschool
Childcare Adventure Zone
Sports Fields
According to Nancy Kirk, Marketing and Development Director of the Beaufort-Jasper YMCA in Port Royal, this new location will also host a wide range of programs including youth sports, after school care, swim lessons, swim team and both day and summer camps.
Adults will also be able to participate through the fitness center, group exercise classes, water aerobics, senior activities, swim club, adult sports, wellness education and other social and volunteer opportunities.
This new YMCA facility will also give back to the community.
“We are proud to offer scholarship programs, the Togetherhood volunteer group and numerous community events that bring people together and make a positive impact. We’re here to create a healthier, stronger, and more connected community for all,” Kirk said.
When will the facility be ready?
The groundbreaking ceremony will happen this week, on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 11:30 a.m. This ceremony will be held at the soon-to-be location of the new YMCA, 11010 East Argent Parkway.
Anyone is invited to attend to learn more about this project.
“This vibrant facility will bring our community together to foster health, wellness and opportunity,” said Natalie Osterman, Chief Executive Officer for the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, “This facility represents a substantial investment in our future, providing resources and programs that will enrich the lives of families and individuals of all ages in our area.”
According to Kirk, this project will be completed in two phases. The first phase is predicted to be completed within 12-18 months from groundbreaking and the second phase will bring more amenities such as a basketball gym.
Until then, the YMCA in Port Royal will remain the sole facility in the area without having to go across state lines to Savannah.
“The YMCA is much more than just a gym or a pool, it’s a place that truly serves everyone, dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and families alike,” said Kirk.
As the project progresses, the YMCA states that they will post updates to their website and social media pages. You can also join their mailing list.
