A New YMCA Comes to Gas City

Communities across East Central Indiana are continuing to invest in projects that strengthen quality of place—and in Gas City, a major milestone was reached on March 31 with the groundbreaking of a brand-new YMCA at Turner Park.

Joined by READI’s Jim Rawlinson, Gas City Mayor Bill Rock Jr., and local community members, the event marked the start of a transformational project that will bring new energy, opportunity, and connection to the area.

A First for the Community

This project represents a significant moment for Gas City—it will be the first YMCA facility in the city’s history. As a brand-new addition to the community, the facility will fill a critical gap by providing access to health, wellness, and recreational resources that residents have not previously had locally.

Located within the growing Turner Park area—on the site of a former fireworks factory—the project also symbolizes renewal. What was once an underutilized space will soon become a vibrant, multi-use destination for residents of all ages.

A Strategic Investment in Quality of Place

With a total project cost of $28 million, the new YMCA represents a major investment in the future of Gas City. Through the READI 2.0 program, the State of Indiana has committed $1,263,000 to support key infrastructure elements of the project, including site preparation, utilities, and roadway improvements.

These foundational investments are critical—they help transform vision into reality and ensure the site is ready to support long-term community use.

More Than a Facility

While the YMCA will offer traditional fitness and recreation amenities, its impact goes far beyond a gym. The facility is designed to serve as a community hub—supporting wellness, connection, and engagement.

Residents can expect a space that encourages healthy lifestyles, provides opportunities for youth programming, and creates a central gathering place for events and activities. In addition, the project is expected to create approximately 50 jobs, contributing to local economic growth.

Transforming Turner Park—and the Region

The YMCA is part of a broader, multi-phase effort to enhance Turner Park as a destination for recreation and community life. By transforming a former industrial site into a place of activity and connection, Gas City is demonstrating how strategic investment can eliminate blight and create lasting value.

From a regional perspective, projects like this play a key role in attracting and retaining residents. High-quality amenities, accessible wellness resources, and vibrant public spaces all contribute to making East Central Indiana a place where people want to live, work, and stay.

Looking Ahead

At Forge ECI, we’re proud to see continued momentum across the region through initiatives like READI 2.0—investments that not only improve infrastructure, but also strengthen the everyday experiences that define quality of place.

As this project takes shape, Gas City is building more than a facility—it’s building a future centered on community.