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New residence center dedicated |
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Written by Andrew Powell
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Friday, 30 October 2009 |
Developers gathered with local officials last week to dedicate the new 24-unit Stearns Residence Center, located on the site of the former elementary school.
Developers gathered with local officials last week to dedicate the new 24-unit Stearns Residence Center, located on the site of the former elementary school.
The $3 million project began in August 2008 following acquisition of the former school building by the McCreary County Heritage Foundation. The historical preservation group wanted to find a way to preserve the school, a project which culminated in the elderly housing complex.
“One of the most important things a community can do is provide for its senior citizens,” said J.C. Egnew, Vice-Chair of the Heritage Foundation.
Garry Watkins, President of the Wabuck Development Company, who managed the project, noted preservation of the original building was not feasible, but the project was able to integrate design elements into new construction that retained features of the Stearns School. The original school building was built by the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company in 1920 with the first class graduating from the school in 1921.
“We tried our best to keep certain façade elements of the old school featured in this project and it turned out real nice,” said Watkins. “There were a lot of elements and people working together for the same purpose.”
Watkins’ company led construction on the project with financing provided through several investors including the Kentucky Housing Corporation, Ohio Capital Corporation and the Bank of McCreary County.
“We will miss the old school and the memories created by its students and staff, but look forward to the new memories created by residents and their families,” said Gordon Kidd, BOMC President and Heritage Foundation member.
The project was completed earlier this summer and applications for the housing units are still being accepted. Officials say all but seven of the 24 units are now occupied. The center’s first resident, Peggy Kilby, assisted officials in the ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday.
The center houses twenty four 657 square foot units for residents 55 or older. The units rent for around $375 a month, utilities included. The center also boasts a 7,345 square foot common space for residents in addition to an outdoor recreation area and playground for families and grandchildren.
For more information on the Stearns Residence Center and the availability of units, please call (606) 376-7566.
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