JASPER COUNTY, S.C. () — The Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry held its groundbreaking for the James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA.

A 33,000 square foot facility is on its way to Jasper County, making it easier for residents to get healthier.

It will feature a six-lane pool, fitness and childcare centers, sports fields, surrounded by trails and green spaces for people to enjoy outdoor activities.

The local YMCA CEO, Michael Bostwick said the project will support a number of families.

“This is a really big growth area over the last five years, and it’s just the lack of services, childcare services, poor access to the pools for learning how to swim,” Bostwick said, “…just a lot of programs that are needed in the community that the y will be able to come in and offer.”

News 3 was told the building and site are designed to support future additions that would include an additional gym, water park and two multi-purpose fields.

 “If you have need childcare and you’re a single parent and you need help, we’ll be there to support you and help your family,” Bostwick said. “So, I think that just the needs that are growing in this community and that we’ll be able to help with a lot of those things.”

Congressman Jim Clyburn said it is a huge step forward for the county.

“That’s why I want to be here today,” Clyburn said. “Just to say my piece about why it is necessary for these community projects to be recognized and honored”

Clyburn told News 3 he assisted in the non-profit receiving $1.5 million in government funding. However, the YMCA said even though they have received various grants, they are still seeking community donations to help support the $14 million project.

“I think that’s the biggest thing that you saw all different types of people here today,” Bostwick said. “Anybody’s going to be able to access the ‘Y’ [YMCA].”

The YMCA is expected to open in 2026.