YMCA Project Nears Finish Line In Lexington Park, Funding Reaches 92%

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — With construction entering its final stretch and funding nearing completion, the long-anticipated YMCA in Lexington Park is on track to open this summer, according to an update delivered by Commissioner Mike Hewitt during Commissioners’ Time on March 31.

Speaking to lingering public concerns about the project’s financial footing, Hewitt emphasized that the YMCA is “getting there” and remains on track both financially and operationally.

“What started out with this program was the commissioners agreeing to put up $15 million,” Hewitt said. “And anything above that would be the responsibility of the YMCA.”

Funding Progress Nears Finish Line

The total project cost is expected to land just above $22 million for the 64,516-square-foot facility, with the county’s contribution forming the backbone of the funding plan.

The YMCA of the Chesapeake initially aimed to raise $6 million privately before increasing that goal to $7 million. As of the commissioner’s update, approximately $3.47 million has been raised from 277 donors, averaging about $12,500 per contributor.

Federal funding has contributed $1.7 million toward the effort, while state support has lagged behind expectations, totaling just $75,000 so far, leaving a remaining gap of roughly $225,000 from state and federal sources.

Despite that shortfall, Hewitt said the project remains financially stable.

“They’re 92% of their goal,” he said. “The key is, every project they do, they want to be 100% funded, but they don’t. They’re just trying to keep down the amount of money they have to borrow to finish the project.”

After years of anticipation, the Lexington Park YMCA is coming together. Here’s a look at the latest construction progress as crews push toward a summer opening.

Public-Private Partnership At The Core

Addressing criticism that county funds are supporting a private organization, Hewitt framed the YMCA as a public-private partnership that will ultimately serve the broader community.

“Their term is a public, private partnership,” he said, noting that while the YMCA will manage operations, including staffing and utilities, and will function similarly to county-run recreational programs that also charge user fees.

He also highlighted the organization’s commitment to accessibility, pointing to its income-based membership assistance program.

“They turn no one away,” Hewitt said. “There can be as little as a dollar a month.”

Construction Timeline And Remaining Costs

The facility is expected to open between mid-June and early July, with Hewitt noting the timeline reflects steady progress despite a few unexpected costs.

Among those challenges was a $208,000 MetCom fee, an expense the YMCA had not encountered in other jurisdictions, along with soil-related issues at the site.

Still, the project remains on budget, with approximately $627,000 remaining in contingency funds.

“It looks good. This project is gonna be good,” Hewitt said.

Memberships And Community Support Launch

Beginning April 1, residents can officially purchase memberships onsite ahead of the facility’s opening. The YMCA is also opening the door for community donations of all sizes, with options to contribute online, via QR code or by mail.

“I’ve heard people say, ‘Hey, look, I’d like to write them a check for $100 bucks,’” Hewitt said. “Any type of a personal contribution will be able to be started.”

With the finish line in sight, county leaders say the project represents more than just a new building, it marks a long-awaited investment in health, recreation and community development for the Lexington Park area.

As Hewitt put it, “They’re doing very well … and going for the finish line.”

You can watch the full Commissioners’ Time from Mike Hewitt below.

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