Columbia County officials are considering a public-private partnership that would allow the Family Y to build a facility in what will become the county's largest park, Blanchard Woods.
The proposal now goes before the Board of Commissioners at its meeting Tuesday, where commissioners could decide whether to proceed.
"We're looking forward to it," Commissioner Steve Brown said.
Blanchard Woods, a nearly 150-acre park bought in early 2003, is still in the design phase. Mark Chostner, the county's facility management and construction manager, said he has found a location on the site plan that would allow a Family Y facility.
"I think it's a wonderful partnership for everybody," Family Y President and CEO Dan McConnell said.
He said the park will draw people to the Family Y and vice versa. "It's a win-win situation all the way around."
The idea of having a Family Y in the park was broached in 2003.
The county's Recreation Advisory Board, which was worried about duplicate services in 2003, has put together a two-man task force to help construct the agreement between the Family Y and the county to prevent the Family Y from providing duplicate services.
"As an advisory board, we're concerned about the recreation department, it's well-being and (providing) the best service it can for citizens of Columbia County," advisory board and task force member Carl Bethune said.
Mr. Chostner said he estimates four soccer fields at Blanchard Woods Park will be operational by September 2006.
Other park facilities, such as a possible playground, tennis courts and parking lots, could be completed by the end of 2006, Mr. Chostner said.
The Family Y plans to offer complimentary programs and outdoor activities.
"We're going to raise about $7 million to build a 50,000-square-foot building," Mr. McConnell said. He said the facility's amenities are not set in stone, but large indoor and outdoor pools are probable.
Because fundraising efforts take time, Mr. McConnell estimates the Family Y could take three to five years to complete.
"I think it's a great location," Mr. Brown said. "Not just because it is part of a park, but because of the location, west of Evans.
"Without a doubt, the growth is heading west," Mr. Brown said. "I think now that you have got your new Y renovated in west Augusta, to make a little leap further out, you'll probably get a whole new group of clientele that will be a part of the facility."
Reach Valerie Rowell at 868-1222, ext. 110, or valerie.rowell@augustachronicle.com.
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