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Senior center construction advances; county, partners outline access and programming plans
Summary
County Judge Mahoney told the Garland County committee the senior center concrete slab is complete and framing is underway; ARDOT and the City of Hot Springs are in talks about road access, and community partners pledged meal, library and programming support.
County Judge Mahoney told the Garland County Special Environmental Services, Public Works & Building Committee on Feb. 23 that construction of the new Senior Citizens Center has reached a key milestone: the concrete slab is complete and building framework is underway. He said roof installation is anticipated soon and that a geographical study by Crafton Tull has been completed.
The update matters because local officials and community organizations say the facility will centralize services for older residents. "We will continue pursuing grants and private donations," Judge Mahoney said, and he added the county will establish a designated fund through the Treasurer's Office to account for contributions; Chairman Young asked to be notified when the fund is ready to accept donations.
Architects from French Architects distributed photographs of the site and summarized the construction schedule, and Mike Harrison, project manager for Harrison Construction, said significant progress has been made and that roof installation is expected in the near term.
Judge Mahoney said discussions are ongoing with the Arkansas Department of Transportation and the City of Hot Springs about road access to the site, an outstanding item that will affect how seniors reach the center. LeDante Walker, a member of the City of Hot Springs Planning Commission, was introduced during the meeting and the committee discussed possible collaboration with city transportation services to assist seniors.
Representatives from the Area Agency on Aging (Barbara Flowers, Logan Gaither-Fisk and Tanya Sawrie) described current onsite and delivered meal services and expressed enthusiasm about expanding offerings at the new center. Kathy Packard of the Oaklawn Foundation outlined existing senior programs and said the new facility would enhance community engagement; County Librarian Adam Webb said the Garland County Library would be pleased to collaborate on programming at the center.
Chairman Young suggested using the Garland County Extension Office Master Gardeners for programming; Kari Barber Bars asked that the center include music and technology classes geared toward seniors.
No formal motions or votes were recorded during the meeting. The committee adjourned with plans to continue coordination on funding, access and program partnerships.
