The Downtown YMCA is excited to announce the grand reopening of its newly renovated Family Pool and revitalized Competition Pool on Thursday, March 13, 2025. This milestone is part of Phase 1 of the Downtown YMCA Capital Campaign, an initiative aimed at enhancing and modernizing the facility as it transforms into the Schewel-Clark Family YMCA.
 
As part of the renovations, the hot tub has been relocated to the Family Pool area, a feature many modern aquatic centers are adopting to create a more inclusive and communal environment. This updated design makes it easier for families and individuals to enjoy both warm water therapy and recreational swimming in one convenient space.
 
Additionally, the Competition Pool has undergone a deep cleaning, ensuring a fresh, revitalized swimming experience for lap swimmers, competitive athletes, and water fitness participants. These improvements reflect the YMCA’s commitment to providing high-quality aquatic facilities that support fitness, rehabilitation, and water safety programs for all ages.
 
As we continue shaping the future of the Schewel Clark Family YMCA, the Downtown YMCA will be transitioning to year-round swim lessons, a signature program designed to teach water safety and save lives. The YMCA’s Safety Around Water program is a vital part of our mission, providing children and adults with essential swimming skills and the confidence to be safe in and around the water. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1–4 and remains one of the top causes for ages 5–14, we are committed to reducing that risk by delivering lifesaving education and swim instruction to our community.
 
The Schewel-Clark Family YMCA represents a bold step toward the future, preserving the Downtown YMCA’s historic legacy while equipping it with the resources needed to better serve Lynchburg for years to come. These renovations are made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, who are helping us build a stronger, healthier community.
 
To learn more about the transformation into the Schewel-Clark Family YMCA and how you can support this initiative, visit https://ymcacva.org/about-us/donate/capital-campaign/
 
For all other media inquiries, please contact Sherri Conner, Association Director of Marketing and Communications, at 434-665-0764 or via email, sherriconner@ymcacva.org