YMCA In Beginning Stage of Fundraising for Outdoor Waterpark

(KNSI) – The St. Cloud YMCA has plans to make a big splash with an outdoor waterpark.

Fundraising for the project is only just beginning, but it has always been part of the dream for the facility. It’s considered the second phase of construction for the Y. Executive Director Greg Gack described to KNSI News what they hope to build. “It’s going to be a significant outside water space that will have multiple slides, a lazy river and many of these [amenities] that you currently see when you go to other waterparks.” The outdoor water park would include a zero-entry family-friendly fun pool.

Planners say it will be a regional asset. Stearns County is on board after voting to donate $1,000,000 from its American Rescue Plan Act funds. The federal money was given to local governments during the pandemic. Gack explained they’re excited to work with key community partners and local governments to make the waterpark a reality. “We’re blessed. You know, we have a generous community. But I know as we continue to work through the fundraising for this waterpark. It’s going to take everybody in our community to help make this happen.”

The estimated cost of the expansion is around $15,000,000. No timetable has been set for construction to start.

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