MUNCIE, Ind. — The new YMCA near Muncie Central opened its doors to the public earlier this week. The grand opening welcomed Muncie residents of all ages and backgrounds, celebrating a project worth many years in the making.
The state-of-the-art facility features multiple fitness rooms, free weights, a multipurpose gymnasium, an indoor track and an aquatic center, just to name a few. But beyond the equipment, the YMCA is already making an impact on the community—particularly for students at Muncie Central High School, located just steps away.
For the school’s swim team, the new aquatics center provides a much-needed upgrade. Their previous pool, built in the 1970s, was aging and lacked modern features. Now, athletes will train and compete in a cutting-edge facility designed to support the next generation of swimmers.
"Muncie has got a very strong swim community," said Shea Hill, a swim coach and teacher at Muncie Central. "All the pools in Delaware County are up there in age. To have a brand-new facility that our student-athletes can benefit from is going to be really cool."
The YMCA’s impact extends beyond sports. The facility will offer job opportunities, work-based learning experiences and a safe space for students who need somewhere to go after school.
"We have a number of our students who take advantage of the programming," said Muncie Central principal Chris Walker. "The close proximity to our campus is huge. Our students will have access to the facility, and I know the Y is working on a program to extend membership opportunities to those who may not already be members."
For Kristen McConnell, the YMCA’s Vice President of Mission Advancement, the opening was an emotional moment.
"I've been with the Y for 24 years, and I've worked on this project for nine years. Everybody's work, everybody's dedication, the hard work, the donations, everything has come together for this moment today," said McConnell.
The sense of pride goes beyond her work on the project, McConnell said. "As a mom, it’s even more special. The YMCA isn’t just a gym, it’s a place where my kids can feel safe, be active, and grow in so many different ways."
Now that the doors are open, the YMCA begins its next chapter—serving as a vital resource for the Muncie community.
Contact Demar Robinson with comments at demarcus.robinson@bsu.edu.
