SOUTHERN PINES — Plans for a new YMCA recreation facility in Southern Pines are being reassessed after the YMCA of the Sandhills acknowledged that it will not meet an upcoming project deadline.
YMCA representatives updated the Southern Pines Town Council during its Aug. 25 work session. The organization was expected to submit preliminary plans and complete other requirements by Sept. 30, but representatives said they were not close to meeting that deadline.
In August 2023, the town approved the sale of approximately 7.7 acres at Morganton Road and Henley Street to the YMCA. Covenants attached to the property call for a recreation facility to be completed by Dec. 31, 2028, with additional deadlines in 2026 and 2027.
The original agreement envisioned a facility measuring at least 45,000 square feet. Plans were expected to include an indoor pool, parking, landscaping and supporting public infrastructure.
The YMCA has told the town that it has not raised enough money to meet the project requirements and intends to return the property. Under the current agreement, the site would automatically revert to the town if the YMCA fails to meet its deadlines.
Despite that setback, both organizations are exploring whether a revised project can move forward.
The YMCA has brought in Bruce Griffin, a consultant with the North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs, to evaluate community needs and determine what programs a Southern Pines facility should offer.
The assessment will consider existing services, potential partnerships and unmet needs involving aquatics, child care, health and wellness, senior programming, summer activities and youth sports.
A larger aquatic facility is among the possibilities being discussed. Griffin noted that Moore County does not currently have an aquatic center large enough to accommodate some swim teams and regional competitions.
The YMCA plans to hold a community forum Oct. 13 at the Southern Pines Land and Housing Trust. The meeting will focus on community needs, potential partnerships and the role a future YMCA facility could serve.
Town Council members expressed continued support for the YMCA concept but said future deadlines should be clearly defined and provide measurable evidence of progress.
Source: Sandhills Sentinel
