St. Cloud Area Family YMCA outdoor waterpark construction appropriation

Minnesota Senate Bill 3043, introduced by Senator Aric Putnam on March 27, 2025, proposes allocating $7 million from the state's general fund to the Department of Employment and Economic Development. This funding would be granted to the city of St. Cloud to design, construct, and equip an outdoor waterpark attached to the existing St. Cloud Area Family YMCA facility. The project aims to fulfill a long-standing community desire for an outdoor waterpark that engages all ages, fosters multigenerational connections, and provides leadership development opportunities for youth and young adults through job and volunteer roles. The appropriation is a one-time allocation, available until the project is completed or abandoned, as per Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.642. ([revisor.mn.gov](https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/SF/3043/versions/0/pdf/?utm_source=openai))

The St. Cloud Area Family YMCA has been actively fundraising for the outdoor waterpark project, with a goal to raise the final $5 million by Labor Day 2025 to commence construction. The community has shown strong support, with Stearns County contributing $1 million from its American Rescue Plan Act funds. The project is expected to be a regional asset, offering a significant outdoor water space with multiple slides, a lazy river, and a zero-entry family-friendly pool. ([startribune.com](https://www.startribune.com/st-cloud-ymca-final-push-raise-money-outdoor-water-park-pool-lazy-river-water-slides/601384663?utm_source=openai))

As of now, there is no significant negative media coverage regarding the proposed outdoor waterpark project.