Fun to be Had at the New YMCA

myFOXaustin.com (AUSTIN, TX)- Water slides, a six-lane lap pool and state of the art work-out stations are just some of the amenities at the newly renovated YMCA in Southwest Austin.

Monday morning, the 5.4 million dollar renovation project was opened to the public for the first-time. Police Chief Art Acevedo along with Constable Richard McCain were on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

"They have really changed this place incredibly," said Mark Skelton

Skelton and his family were among the dozens of visitors at the open house.

Outside, the YMCA has A small water oasis, outfitted with a mushroom-type waterfall, kiddy slide and plenty of other water works. Next to that is a 6 lane lap pool.

The McKenna family had plenty of fun Monday inside and out.

"This is amazing. We've been members for two years and the changes are wonderful," said Sarah McKenna.

The changes are a long-time coming for the YMCA Southwest family and the 20-year old building.

"We need to make sure that we connect families in meaningful ways so they're not sitting in front of a TV thinking that's family time," said YMCA CEO James Fink.

Finck said through the years, the need has gotten greater. The YMCA at the Y has seen a boom in families moving to the area. The more people needed more room and better services like the indoor fitness center. It's equipped with spinning and yoga rooms, indoor basketball court and track along with plenty of weight machines and kinetics, Austin's only 3d exercise wall.

"This right here will be overused once we get it done, so we know we have to start more YMCA's," said Finck.

"Just keeping them busy makes me happy. the extra classes and facilities are wonderful," said McKenna.

There is another phase to this project. The front building here will have a child watch center and expanded locker rooms. It's expected to be finished by the end of the year. The YMCA at the Y is projected to service 10-12 thousand families.
 

Link to SW Austin YMCA .