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By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer 

CALERA – The city of Calera announced the receipt and installation of a new storm shelter through a post on social media in the early afternoon of Monday, Jan. 8.

The prebuilt structure was lowered into place via crane and secured on its concrete foundation earlier the same day and is now located at the intersection of 22nd Avenue and Shady Lane, across from the Calera Housing Authority.

“This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit,” read an official Facebook post by the city of Calera. “We look forward to the day when our storm shelter opens its doors to protect and serve our citizens.”

The shelter, which is approximated to adequately provide emergency shelter for 100 people, will be equipped with basic amenities and necessities such as a restroom and cache of emergency supplies.

“Once the power is connected, the sidewalk is poured and all inspections are complete, the shelter will be ready to serve its crucial purpose,” read the post. “This project has been a true community effort, and we want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone involved.”

The new installation has been some time coming, with the process beginning this past May when the shelter was first announced at a Calera City Council meeting. The process became a reality thanks to the philanthropy group, Rising Eagle, and their efforts that helped raised approximately $70,000 in additional funds toward the $90,000 allocated by the City Council to fund construction costs.

The city also expressed its thanks and gratitude to other community partners, such as the Calera Bible Baptist Church and Argos USA, LLC who also leant aid and support during the project.

Littleton Construction, Sherman Concrete, McNamee Electric and Councilmember Kenny Dale Cost were also thanked in specificity for their contributions that included time and material efforts and support.

Video of the installation can be viewed on the city’s Youtube page at Youtube.com/watch?v=sgDrJ0L49ZQ.