Chelsea Community Center ‘99.8 percent done,’ says mayor

The Chelsea Community Center is growing close to completion, but Mayor Earl Niven said there are a few things holding up the project.

“This is 99.8 percent done,” Niven said, adding that the remaining 0.2 percent is held up in telephone lines and other minutia.

Cable and telephone lines won’t be run until Sept. 25, which limits some of the other work. The elevator, for example, cannot operate until the telephone line is installed. The wiring is also in the ceiling of the building, and the floors will not be buffed and waxed until any overhead work is completed.

“That is going to be a building that is really going to be enjoyed,” Niven said.

Flooring was installed in the gymnasium last week, along with six adjustable basketball goals. The walking track that circles the gym was also completed.

As the community center draws closer to opening, members of the Chelsea City Council began asking about smaller details. Councilman Juanita Champion asked how towels in the kitchen area or workout room would be washed, suggesting a washer and dryer for the facility. Niven said there are hookups available, but they should wait to purchase a washer and dryer. The first few weeks will be a learning experience, he said.

“We don’t know half of what we think we know,” Niven said.

The community center will employ a full-time parks and recreation director and several part-time employees. Applications are available at Chelsea City Hall.

Niven toured the community center with Chelsea City Council members and other community members following the Sept. 1 city council meeting. He said the project is coming together, and he looks forward to opening the doors to the city of Chelsea.

“We have a lot of be proud of,” Niven said. “What we have to do is encourage our people to take care of it.”