December 16, 2024 – The Bath Area Family YMCA and General Dynamics Bath Iron Works announced the start of renovations for a new childcare center near Cooks Corner Brunswick. The center, located at 6 Farley Road, is scheduled to open September 3 with 120 childcare slots set aside for the children of shipyard workers and additional availability for the broader community.

Attending the event were representatives from Maine’s Congressional delegation, representatives from the U.S. Navy, state officials, staff and board members from the YMCA and shipbuilders from Bath Iron Works.

“This public-private partnership is successfully tackling one of Maine’s toughest challenges – the critical need for childcare as a precursor to expanded workforce participation,” said BIW President Charles F. Krugh. “The benefits of this childcare center will extend far into the future. We’re not just building ships, we are sustaining families and building future shipbuilders.”

“We’re very excited to be entering into this important partnership with Bath Iron Works. Having access to quality, affordable childcare is critical for the long-term prosperity of families in our community and I’m proud of the part our YMCA is playing in offering solutions to this important issue,” said Rob Gray, President & CEO, Bath Area Family YMCA.

“Governor Janet Mills has made expanding childcare options for Maine’s working families one of her Administration’s top priorities,” said Heather Johnson, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Economic & Community Development. “This partnership between Bath Iron Works and the Bath Area Family YMCA compliments this work and is a great model of how businesses and childcare providers can work together to benefit Maine kids and Maine parents and strengthen our economy.”

Monday’s announcement took place at the site of the renovations. Following remarks by participants, several stakeholders ­­­– including children of BIW shipbuilders – pressed their handprints into a slab of cement, which will be incorporated into the facility’s bicycle rack. Staff for the YMCA, which will operate the facility, showed attendees how the building will be configured into 10 up-to-date classrooms customized for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

More information about General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), can be found at www.gdbiw.com. More information about the Bath Area Family YMCA, including how to apply for childcare, can be found at bathymca.org/enrichment.