“We are excited to be partnering with not just the leadership and staff of the YMCA, but with children and families throughout northwest Louisiana to bring home a world-class campus and facilities to this community, said BHP Billiton’s Petroleum & Potash President Tim Cutt. “The YMCA’s vision and plans for this location will have a multi-parish impact for generations to come. We at BHP Billiton are committed to enhancing the lives of our neighbors in the communities where we operate and for this reason we are proud to announce our support today.”

Envisioned by the YMCA board of directors and staff for several years, the Red River Fitness & Natural Sciences Campus will encompass approximately 150 acres and will include a new multi-purpose fitness facility, 50 meter swimming pool, and natural science education facilities. The campus will also entail a partnership with Shreveport Little League to redesign and rebuild adjacent ball fields and soccer fields. Each will be developed to better facilitate physical fitness, healthy lifestyles, education, and parental participation.

“To reach our community and address our long-term challenges with youth and families, we need a comprehensive approach and facilities of this size and scope,” said Greg Morrison, Chairman of the YMCA. “The Shreveport Little League, swimming clubs, local educators, parents, and grandparents will all have a role in ensuring the bigger success for our entire community.”

The facilities and campus will be situated on the west side of Clyde Fant Parkway and north of East Preston Avenue. Close to a half million people live in the Shreveport-Bossier metropolitan area.

The YMCA of Northwest Louisiana was established in Shreveport in the late 1860s and currently has two locations in the region, including the downtown location erected in 1924.