MIDLAND, Texas — The Midland YMCA has officially launched a new capital campaign to fund the construction of a modern indoor aquatic center at its downtown facility, propelled by a $1 million gift from the Scharbauer Foundation, Inc. The initiative, titled A Better Place to Connect – Downtown Aquatic and Social Expansion, was announced Wednesday, marking a significant development in the YMCA’s long‑term plans to enhance community recreation and wellness services.
The project aims to replace the YMCA’s existing indoor pool, which has been in service for approximately 70 years, with a new first‑floor aquatic facility featuring a zero‑entry pool, lap lanes, a whirlpool, a recreational slide, upgraded wet areas and expanded social spaces. Natural lighting and family‑oriented seating areas will be incorporated to improve accessibility and comfort for visitors of all ages.
According to YMCA leadership, the expansion responds to community feedback gathered through a recent needs assessment, which indicated strong local demand for enhanced aquatic and family‑friendly facilities. The new pool is designed to serve a broader range of users and provide increased opportunities for youth programming, fitness activities and community events.
Christine Bearden, Chief Executive Officer of the Midland YMCA, highlighted the role of the Scharbauer Foundation’s contribution in advancing the campaign, noting that the gift “propels this campaign forward” and supports the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Mary Ann Beninati, CEO and President of the Scharbauer Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to projects that “promote opportunity, strengthen families and uplift the region.”
The Midland YMCA board of directors approved the capital project plan in November 2025, following the community needs assessment. While the exact timeline for construction has not yet been finalized, the campaign’s launch signals the beginning of fundraising and planning efforts required to move the project into the design and build phases.
The new aquatic center will be located at the YMCA’s existing downtown facility at 800 N. Big Spring St., Midland, TX, the site of the YMCA’s central operations since the facility was dedicated in 1960. The expanded amenities are expected to significantly enhance the YMCA’s service capacity and reinforce its position as a key health, wellness and family resource in the Midland community.
As part of its broader mission, the Midland YMCA operates programs that support child care, youth development, adult fitness and community engagement. The planned aquatic center expansion is anticipated to complement recent YMCA developments in the region, including the opening of the Northwest Midland YMCA facility and expanded childcare services.
