Groundbreaking held for childcare center near BlueOval City
STANTON, Tenn. — One project officially kicked off in West Tennessee, providing a space for little ones.
Ford and the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South officially broke ground Tuesday for a new child development center.
Located off Highway 222, less than a mile from BlueOval City, this center will provide childcare for employees and local residents.
“This has been a phenomenal journey. It’s been about three years in the making,” said Ermal Faulkner, Director, BlueOval City & EV Sites.
The childcare center will provide care for as many as 175 children starting at six weeks up to five-years-old.
This five-acre site was donated by the Wall family to bridge the gap in the community.
“We feel blessed that we’re able to do this, that we’re able to participate. It’s what the community needs,” said Beth Wall-Flanagan, land donor.
The 15,500 square foot center totals $8 million. There will be indoor and outdoor play spaces, a multipurpose gymnasium, and more.
“It’s a community project, so where everybody comes together to make sure that we can expand access to childcare, get kids ready for kindergarten, and make sure that they’re set up for life,” said Brian McLaughlin, President, YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South.
The facility also plans to provide before and after school care programs and meals to accommodate working families.
“We know that the hours and making sure that the center is not open for your typical hour will actually be tailored to shiftwork hours,” McLaughlin said.
This project is designed to help remove barriers to employment for local residents.
The center is expected to open in 2026.
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