Center's doors to open soon

Grovetown's newest community center is nearly ready to open.

Construction on the recreation building at Liberty Park began in March, and city officials hope to dedicate the building in early January.

"It's about done," said Michael Woods, the city's public works director, who oversees the project. "We're waiting on the plaque to get in."

The park on Newmantown Road already has a walking track with exercise stations and four baseball fields.

City officials designed the combination gymnasium and multipurpose building to include an indoor basketball court, a fitness or weight room and a few offices and meeting rooms in addition to restrooms, storage and a commercial kitchen.

Grovetown Mayor Dennis Trudeau said at Friday's Christmas tree lighting that he looks forward to holding the city's annual Fourth of July celebration at the center. The celebration, though fun, is normally plagued by heat. City officials mentioned this when discussing a need for the new building.

"Construction is complete probably 99 percent," Woods said, adding that workers are still in and out of the building finishing up details.

Woods said he is still awaiting the arrival of some gym equipment for the fitness room and bleachers. He said he plans to order tables and chairs for the community center soon.

The contractor originally expected the project to be complete by mid-October, but Woods said he expects construction to be complete this month with a grand opening and dedication ceremony in January.