The public will have a chance to learn more about the Washington YMCA new building project at an upcoming community forum. Plans for the new building and fundraising updates will be discussed. Director of the YMCA of Washington County Becky Harkema explains the project will consolidate the two downtown locations in the new building on West 5th Street. It will feature a full-sized gym, a larger pool, space for service groups to meet and fitness areas. They are looking to construct a new YMCA because their current location doesn’t offer enough room for programming.

Efforts are underway to raise about $10.5 million for the facility. So far the project has received a $3.5 million grant from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation and they are seeking a $1.5 million Vision Iowa grant and are pursuing a $3 million bond referendum for the City of Washington.

The forum will be held at the Washington Community YMCA Tuesday at noon.