New YMCA to begin phased opening
The Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry has rescheduled and combined its grand opening events for a new facility at 11010 East Argent Parkway, off Highway 170, with a joint ribbon-cutting now set for noon April 9.
The ceremony for the James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA will be held in partnership with both the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, bringing together local leaders, officials and supporters for a single celebration.
The opening will mark the start of a phased launch for the new facility, with some amenities available immediately and others expected to roll out over time.
During the initial phase, members will have access to the fitness center, aquatics complex and child watch area. A limited group exercise schedule will also be offered, with plans to expand classes and operating hours as staffing increases.
“This soft opening gives our community the opportunity to get started while also helping shape what comes next,” said Michael Bostwick, CEO of the Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry. “We’re excited to welcome members in and learn directly from them as we build out programs and services that best meet their needs.”
YMCA officials said the organization is continuing to hire staff and expects to add programming in the coming weeks. Aquatics offerings, including swim lessons and water fitness classes, are expected to begin once staffing is in place.
Future plans for the facility include after-school care programs for the 2026-27 school year, along with additional health and wellness offerings as development continues.
Leaders said the phased approach allows the YMCA to expand services in a controlled way while responding to community demand.
The April 9 event will include remarks from YMCA leadership and community partners, followed by tours of the new facility.
The James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA was developed to address several community needs, including access to affordable child care, expanded aquatics programming and additional health and wellness resources for residents.
The facility is part of the Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry, which serves the region through programs focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
More information about the James Fisher Memorial Foundation YMCA
and its programs is available online at beaufort-jasperymca.org.
