Fredericton, NB – Sept. 8, 2025 – The YMCA of Fredericton has taken an important step forward in addressing the region’s growing need for modern aquatic facilities. A recently completed viability analysis, conducted by EXP, confirms strong community demand and financial feasibility for a new Aquatics Centre.

The study highlights that the existing infrastructure at the Y can support the proposed addition of 16 lanes of 25m swimming. A new YMCA Aquatics Centre would provide a modern, inclusive, and accessible space designed to serve children, families, seniors, and individuals of all abilities.

“This report reaffirms what our community has been telling us for years—Fredericton needs expanded and upgraded aquatic facilities,” said Darcy Delaney, CEO of the YMCA of Fredericton. “The YMCA has a long history of providing safe, welcoming spaces for people to connect, grow, and thrive. A new Aquatics Centre will ensure we can continue to deliver on that promise and important swimming and lifesaving programs for generations to come.”

Key Findings of the Viability Analysis (EXP Engineering):

• The proposed new pool will provide 16 lanes of 25-metre swimming, ensuring capacity to meet both current and future aquatics demand across the Capital Region.
• A moveable bulkhead will also provide for 50m swimming when required for training or competitions.
• The YMCA’s existing infrastructure — including locker rooms and parking lots — can accommodate the planned expansion.
• The YMCA has the best talent pool and operations team in place to successfully manage and sustain the additional pool as part of the proposed YMCA Aqua-Plex.
• The 2 existing pools (a therapy tank and 4 lane 25m pool) will remain open and operational as part of the Aqua-Plex concept.

EXP has provided the YMCA with a proposal to design the additional aquatics facility which is the next step in bringing this long-awaited community resource to reality. The YMCA will begin engaging with stakeholders, government partners, and community members to discuss next steps in making the Aquatics Centre a reality

Background

For more than a decade, the City of Fredericton/ Capital Region has faced challenges in advancing a regional aquatics centre project. Despite widespread recognition of the community’s need, progress has been delayed by competing priorities and funding complexities. The YMCA’s viability analysis, conducted by EXP Engineering, provides renewed momentum and a clear path forward, positioning the organization to lead in bringing this long-awaited vision to life.

For more information, please contact:

Darcy Delaney
YMCA of Fredericton
Tel: 506-462-3000 x 113
Email: darcy.delaney@ymcafredericton.org