By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA–Senior citizens of Columbiana are getting closer to being able to enjoy a brand new senior center that many have waited for.

The wait is now over, as city officials and Columbiana residents gathered at the groundbreaking spot across from City Hall on the morning of Wednesday, Jan. 14.

The groundbreaking was hosted by the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the new 4,300-square-foot multi-purpose facility that features a dining lounge, computer and library room, multi-purpose room for arts and crafts, conference room and commercial grade kitchen.

Columbiana senior citizens took advantage of the free trolley service that brought them over to the groundbreaking.

“This is exciting for the city of Columbiana for sure,” Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley said. “Very exciting for our senior citizens who are using our senior center. Shelby County helps us with our city projects so much and we like to help them when we get an opportunity. This would not be possible without them.”

The resolution to construct the new senior center was approved by the Shelby County Commission on Oct. 27.

Douglas Built, LLC was the low bidder and awarded the construction contract for $565,877 to build the new senior center.

The project is expected to be completed this fall.