‘Young Child and Families Center’ is now in the works for $71M in Lacey

Community conversations are ongoing for the “Young Child and Families Center” project of the City of Lacey, North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS), and the South Sound YMCA.

NTPS Assistant Superintendent of Operations Troy Oliver said they are organizing monthly meetings to discuss youth and family needs and to gather insights and recommendations.

“We want to also engage with our military community, medical providers, Economic Development Council, and other essential partners to really make this a holistic body of work that can support students and families in a variety of different ways,” said Oliver.

Oliver added that they are also reviewing potential funding sources and looking for private partnerships and donations.

The project, proposed to be located north of Nisqually Middle School, is estimated to cost around $71 million. It would feature a 45,000-square-foot Early Learning Center with 23 classrooms and 25,000 square feet for public use.

Lacey Parks Culture and Recreation Director Jennifer Burbidge said the proposed Young Child and Families Center would cater to around 600 students annually. The Center would host family-friendly parenting and nutrition classes and on-site medical and mental health services.

The project will also feature a spray park, indoor activity areas for learning, a playground, an indoor family-oriented pool, and outdoor adventure playgrounds.

In August, the Lacey City Council, NTPS, and South Sound YMCA signed a memorandum of agreement to fund a feasibility study for the project.