YMCA and CTX

YMCA of Austin Adds Ninth Location to  
Serve Communities in West Austin 

Plans include major partnership with Concordia University to create shared community sports and wellness facilities.

AUSTIN – The YMCA of Austin has purchased a property in West Austin that it will transform into its first center in the Four Points community. The facility is expected to open in 2024 and will provide health and wellness and recreational programs as well as education, enrichment and care for kids. 

Located on RM 620 between Anderson Mill and RM 2222, the site had previously served as a Children’s Learning Adventure Child Care Center. The property is 9 acres, and the building was completed in 2016. In addition to the structure, the property currently includes a variety of outdoor amenities, bringing the total area of programmable space to 55,000 square feet.  

Neighboring Concordia University Texas has become a major partner in bringing a Y to Four Points and envisions a variety of collaborative projects. Concordia will break ground on a new athletic complex in early 2023, including a soccer stadium, track and field facilities, and a tennis court. Plans currently include the use of these facilities as a part of a partnership with the Y. 

“As a member of the Four Points community, Concordia University Texas is proud to continue to invest in this community alongside the YMCA,” said Dr. Don Christian, Concordia University Texas President and CEO. “Concordia’s investment will take many different forms, including a commitment of resources to further the missions of both institutions. These resources will include educational expertise, an ongoing financial commitment, and the use of shared facilities.” 

Christian said another possible partnership opportunity lies in jointly constructing a swim and dive center that would be used by both the university and the community. The organizations are also continuing conversations about academic programs, including early childhood education certifications and pathways to earning a four-year degree for YMCA employees.

“Every YMCA center is designed to reflect the unique character of the community it serves,” said Kathy Kuras, YMCA of Austin President & CEO. “That’s why we plan to listen to our neighbors first to learn how we can best serve them, and we want to find more partners who can help bring this facility to life.” 

In October, the Y will convene a series of community meetings and conduct a survey to determine what services area residents need most. That input from the community will provide a clearer picture of facility development needs, which will inform architectural and construction timelines, and, ultimately, the total project cost and fundraising goals. Details are available at www.FourPointsYMCA.org.   

“We know the Y will offer programs for all ages,” Kuras said. “Whether it’s achieving a fitness goal, learning how to swim, connecting with neighbors, volunteering or serving on staff with us, the Y is a catalyst to help people find and power their purpose, whatever that unique purpose may be.” 

The entry into West Austin is the culmination of research and planning that has taken place for more than a decade. Local real estate developer and YMCA supporter Pete Dwyer has been a part of conversations with the Y since 2009, and he says the Y will be a valuable addition to the area. 

“To this day today, I remain committed and convinced that a YMCA facility in the area will be a boon to the Four Points community,” Dwyer said. “The YMCA can bring health and wellness opportunities, and a host of things to do to the area.” 

About YMCA of Austin

As a nonprofit community enterprise, the YMCA of Austin relies on the generosity of the community to ensure that its programs are open and accessible to all. Last year, the organization provided more than $2 million in financial assistance for membership, programs, afterschool education and care and summer camp. The YMCA of Austin currently operates 8 full-facility community centers along with providing education and care at more than 70 campuses across five school districts, 8 preschools, more than 20 summer day camps and YMCA Camp Moody. More information is available at www.AustinYMCA.org. 

Historical Timeline for YMCA Project at Four Points

1. In late 2014, the YMCA of Austin received a Change.org petition requesting that a YMCA be constructed in West Austin.
2. In spring 2015, the Y commissioned a resident survey and began a community dialogue.
   • The West Austin Chamber surveyed 1,000 residents. Of the respondents, 988 expressed a strong desire for a community recreation facility with community use space.
   • Based on this feedback, the YMCA of Austin decided to explore the feasibility of expanding its mission into West Austin.
   • Based on this feedback, the YMCA of Austin decided to explore the feasibility of expanding its mission into West Austin.
3. In 2016, the Y convened a steering committee to identify unmet community needs.
4. In 2017, the Y continued its research and due diligence, surveying the broader community to gauge interest in other services such as a library.
   
   • During this phase, the Y also conducted market research to affirm that the Four Points region would be an ideal location for a new Y center.
5. In 2018-2019, the Y collaborated with City of Austin District 6 Council Member Jimmy Flannigan on a Quality of Life Task Force created to broaden citizen input and involvement.
   • Community interest in having a Y in Four Points registered at 90%.
6. In 2021, the property at 8124 Ranch Road was listed for sale.
7. In June 2022, the YMCA of Austin closed purchase on the property.

Contact: Sean Doles, YMCA of Austin
Sean.Doles@AustinYMCA.org / (512) 923-5015