Facility enhancements include natatorium renovation and new exercise studio
The J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall broke ground on one of its largest construction projects to date, a $5.2 million facility expansion. The project will focus on improving some of its most heavily trafficked areas, helping to increase access, safety, and programming for members and staff. Since opening its doors in 1975, the J.E.R. Chilton Y has remained a cornerstone of Rockwall County, promoting youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The 50-year-old building will receive critical updates including:
● A natatorium renovation to rebuild and winterize the facility for swim lessons, swim team activities, and lifesaving water safety programs year-round, in addition to an extra changing room
● A new group exercise studio to expand wellness offerings, classes, and provide space for necessary events.
Last year, HomeBank Texas provided a transformational gift to the J.E.R. Chilton Y with a $500,000 donation to kickstart the project, securing naming rights to the future natatorium. This year, phase one of construction started on two new paved parking lots near the building’s Small Fry Fields, where more spaces are now available, improving accessibility and convenience for members, guests, and staff.
As part of the capital campaign, J.E.R. Chilton YMCA has been offered a $500,000 challenge grant opportunity from the J.E. & L.E. Mabee Foundation. To satisfy this challenge, the Y must raise $892,670 in additional community support by January 13, 2027. If met, the Mabee Foundation’s $500,000 grant will be awarded, significantly accelerating progress toward the campaign’s $5.2 million goal.
“After five decades of service, it’s time to write our next chapter. We have an incredible opportunity to revitalize a building that serves thousands of members, but more importantly, it breathes new life into core programming,” said Curt Hazelbaker, President
and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. “This construction project is a commitment to our community that says we’re rooted in Rockwall and will continue to invest in its future.”
With Rockwall County named the nation’s second fastest-growing county (U.S. News & World Report, 2024), this expansion is vital. These upgrades ensure the Y remains a community hub and continues to serve and strengthen Rockwall for current and future generations.
“The J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall has brought valuable new programming to the area, including drowning prevention, senior lunch and learn, and Angel Camp,” said Harold C. Young II, District Executive Director at J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall. “When looking at the numbers from 2025, we’ve served more than 16,000 people through membership and programs across the community. Nearly 13,000 people found connection and community through membership at the Y, more than 3,600 youth participated in sports, nearly 1,900 people took part in swim lessons and Safety Around Water programming, 584 children participated in afterschool programs, and 535 campers experienced our day and adaptive camps. When you have a presence that can reach thousands of people, the space you host them in should feel just as inspiring as the programs. We’re thrilled to give our Rockwall community a fresh environment, built to last another 50 years.”
Building renovations will begin immediately, with the estimated timeline to be completed in the summer of 2027. To learn more or get involved in improving our local communities, have opportunities to make an impact and support your neighbors, please visit us at www.ymcadallas.org.
Source: Press Release
