A Strong Foundation: The YMCA’s Legacy in North Carolina
When you think of the YMCA, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s a gym, swimming lessons, or youth sports. But for over 180 years, the Y has been a cornerstone of strong communities, fostering well-being, connection, and personal growth. That’s why Chatham Park’s partnership with the YMCA of the Triangle isn’t just about adding an amenity—it’s about creating a place where every generation can thrive together.

The YMCA of the Triangle has been a driving force in shaping healthier, more connected communities across North Carolina, serving seven counties—including Chatham, Orange, Durham, and Wake. With a mission rooted in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the Y has impacted countless lives.

For Preston Development Company and its owners, Tim Smith and Bubba Rawl, partnering with the YMCA is nothing new. Their deep commitment to community enrichment is evident in their developments, where they have actively integrated YMCA facilities, including in Wakefield, Knightdale Station, and Wake Forest.

Even before their contributions as Preston Development, Tim Smith set the precedent by donating land for the Cary YMCA—an initiative that paved the way for future philanthropic efforts alongside Bubba Rawl. Their dedication to creating vibrant, well-balanced communities is further reflected in their instrumental support and direct funding of the Chatham Park YMCA. This partnership seamlessly aligns with their vision for Chatham Park as a thriving, connected community where residents can live, work, and play.

“The Y is more than just a place to work out—it’s about building relationships, shaping lives, and creating a sense of belonging,” said Chuck Smith, Landscape Architect and Vice President of Planning at Preston Development.

A Community-Driven YMCA
Unlike traditional HOA-style amenities, the Chatham Park YMCA is designed to be an inclusive hub for the entire Pittsboro community. More than just a fitness center, it serves as a gathering place where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, grow, and support one another.

As Forrest Perry, Vice President of Operations for YMCA of the Triangle, explained, “This facility isn’t just for Chatham Park residents—it’s for the entire county.”

Beyond constructing a facility, the YMCA at Chatham Park has been carefully designed to foster genuine community engagement. As Perry emphasized, “This isn’t just about building a facility—it’s about building relationships and ensuring that everyone in our community has access to opportunities for growth, health, and connection.” By welcoming individuals and families from across Pittsboro and beyond, the Chatham Park YMCA provides a space where people can form meaningful bonds while pursuing their wellness goals.

Future-Ready: A Sustainable, Connected YMCA
Built with the future in mind, the Chatham Park YMCA incorporates sustainable features, flexible spaces, and outdoor connectivity—reflecting valuable lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Design Elements

• Eco-friendly stormwater management: A beautifully integrated system that filters and slows rainwater runoff while enhancing the natural landscape.
• Smart energy solutions: A state-of-the-art geothermal system improves energy efficiency and reduces the Y’s environmental footprint.
• Seamless outdoor access & amenities: Directly connected to Chatham Park’s greenway system, this facility makes it easy to bike, walk, or jog to your workout. One highlight is the one-of-a-kind airnasium—an open-air gym designed to let you stay active while enjoying the fresh air.

The Chatham Park YMCA, located in the new NoVi neighborhood of Chatham Park, officially opened its doors on March 15, 2025. The facility is located at 120 Parkland Dr., Pittsboro, making it a convenient and accessible amenity for the entire community. This full-scale community hub is already making a significant impact on Pittsboro and the surrounding area.

Endless Ways to Move, Connect, and Thrive
Whether you’re looking for a high-energy group workout, a peaceful swim, or a vibrant space for your kids to learn and play, the Chatham Park YMCA has something for everyone.

What the Chatham Park YMCA Offers:

• A state-of-the-art wellness center and group exercise studios where individuals can increase their physical activity and access healthy lifestyle resources.
• Versatile community spaces perfect for family-friendly events, workshops, and social gatherings.
• A top-tier aquatics facility featuring an eight-lane competition pool alongside a resort-style pool with a water slide.
• A child development and after-school care area.
• Direct access to Chatham Park’s extensive trail system and a 30-acre public park.

Beyond its physical amenities, the Y’s real impact comes from its programs—from youth sports and after-school care to senior wellness initiatives and community-building events.

A Lasting Impact on Chatham Park and Beyond
The Chatham Park YMCA is more than a fitness center—it’s a place to gather, learn, grow, and build lasting connections. Through this partnership with Preston Development Company, the Chatham Park YMCA serves as a cornerstone of community life for years to come.

With state-of-the-art facilities, innovative design, and a commitment to health, youth development, and social responsibility, this YMCA is already becoming a true centerpiece of Chatham Park’s vision for a thriving, connected community.

Ready to Experience the Chatham Park YMCA?
Ready to see what makes the Chatham Park YMCA more than just a gym? Stop by today for a tour, join a class, or meet your neighbors at a community event. Your new favorite gathering place is waiting! Visit their website to learn more or become a member today at YMCA Triangle – Chatham Park!

About Chatham Park
Developed by the award-winning Preston Development Company, Chatham Park is a technology-centric 8,500-acre live, work, play, learn master-planned community located just outside of Raleigh in Pittsboro, North Carolina. Founded on five pillars: Innovation, Connectivity, Quality Design, Healthy Balance, and Stewardship, the vision of Chatham Park is to offer a balanced, well-rounded lifestyle for those In Pursuit of a Life Well Lived.

More than 2,000 acres will be dedicated to parks and open space in addition to a wide range of amenities, including over 30 miles of scenic walking, biking, and multimodal trails; access to the Haw River and Jordan Lake; an amphitheater for live music and entertainment; shops, dining, art galleries, and much more.