The Ohio Valley YMCA has secured a $2.6 million grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization program to develop the Beaver Creek Presbyterian Church Camp into a community recreation and tourism hub. 

The funding, which accounts for half of the $5 million project cost, will support infrastructure improvements and new amenities at the 100-acre site.

The YMCA acquired the property in 2017 through a donation from the Presbyterian Churches in the Upper Ohio Valley, with an agreement that church groups would continue using the site. Plans for the transformation include youth day camps, overnight residential camps, an outdoor swimming pool, waterfront access for kayaking and fishing, gathering spaces for community events, walking and hiking trails, and expanded camping facilities.

“This investment will allow us to revitalize a historic site, improve infrastructure, and create new opportunities for outdoor activities that benefit the entire region,” Sierra Estell, executive director of the Ohio Valley YMCA, said, as reported by Morning Journal on March 18. 

“With a focus on community health, economic growth, and environmental stewardship, the Outdoor YMCA will provide a unique space for recreation, education, and wellness,” Estell added.

The development will be completed in three phases: mine land reclamation, new construction and infrastructure, and recreation tourism enhancements. 

The first phase is expected to begin in late spring or summer, and the entire project must be completed within three years under the terms of the grant.

Before construction begins, an environmental assessment will be conducted to ensure that planned improvements do not disrupt the natural landscape.

Initial work will focus on securing nine abandoned mines on the property, including addressing erosion issues caused by water runoff from one of the open mines.

Site improvements will include renovations to the existing lodge, which will be upgraded with a commercial-grade kitchen and a large event and meeting space. 

Additional hiking trails will be created, and new cabins will be constructed to supplement existing lodging options. The property’s swimming area is already in good condition and requires minimal upgrades.

“This initiative will address long-standing economic and environmental challenges stemming from the site’s coal mining history. Project plans were developed using key findings from community assessments and public health studies,” Estell said.