Published: November 24, 2009 04:57 pm      

Park Center eyes 2010 opening

Progress expected after drought in development

WHITLEY CITY — After a long drought in actual development, the McCreary County Park Board is assuring citizens that they will soon be able to see the progress being made at the 99-acre site.

Spurred by questions from Jimmie Greene and Vicki Kidd, board chair J.C. Egnew reported that the multi-generational facility which will house the senior citizens center should be bid by the end of the year with occupancy projected for Fall 2010.

The county has a $500,000 CDBG grant and a $500,000 REDLG loan to build the one-story facility, which was modified from a two-story structure due to funding issues.

Thus far, $3.3 million has been spent on design, excavation, and costs pertaining to overclearing issues that threatened the federally protected blackside dace. The board currently spends more than $1,500 per month to monitor the affected stream and is working with state and federal agencies to mitigate a fine by reclaiming another minnow habitat.

This week, a final survey is scheduled to occur at the park which should allow for the installation of fencing in anticipation of the Little League season next spring. The board has also begun to secure playground equipment, including a donation from McDonald’s in Oneida.

“We can help ourselves on smaller projects with volunteers,” Egnew said, referring to shelters. “The progress hasn’t been highly visible yet but will be by spring.”