New community center breaks ground in Strasburg

It was a cold and blustery Saturday morning, Feb. 21, but a strong crowd turned out for the groundbreaking of a new community center planned on North Bodmer Avenue in Strasburg.

Pastor Jason Rissler of Strasburg St. John United Church of Christ gave the invocation and benediction. Village Administrator Mike Rosenberry served as master of ceremonies.

“This is the first-ever community center in the village, which will have a community room, police station, local library and Carpenters Cupboard food pantry,” Rosenberry said. “The building will be 18,000 square feet, including the front porch, and will cost about $3 million to construct.”

Rosenberry said the project will be commercial-grade construction with stone across the front of the building.

“The building we are breaking ground for today is not just a building, but it is a place for our community to come together,” Mayor Bruce Metzger said. “People can come enjoy the new library, food pantry, or use the community center for fellowship and meet a new neighbor. It will be great to have the library next to the school. Children and parents can feel safe with the new police station being right near the school.”

Metzger said many people played key roles in making the project possible. He said the idea began with several council members, and two council members suggested locating the library at the site as well.

Metzger thanked Robert Reiser and Robert Miller Jr. of Tekton’s design group in Berlin and Brent Yoder of ANR Builders in Millersburg. Reiser said construction is expected to begin near the end of March, with completion targeted for September or October.

State Rep. Jodi Salvo said it is a joy to see a community grow and come together.

“This is not a small effort. It took vision of the mayor, council and businesses,” Salvo said.

Salvo presented the village with a commendation recognizing the milestone and calling it a significant investment in the future of the community that reflects the dedication, vision and collaborative spirit of local leadership.

State Sen. Al Landis, District 31, also sent a commendation congratulating the village on the groundbreaking. He was unable to attend.

Donors to the project include Reeves Foundation; Doris and Floyd Kimble Foundation; ProVia; Stark Truss; Amish Commercial Builders; Lucky Tree Service Inc.; Newton Asphalt Paving Inc.; Tremcar USA Inc.; Wolfe’s Landscape; Helbling’s Supply; Willandale Golf Cart Sales; RLA Excavating; Levco Striping; Weaver Appliance; and SSB Community Bank.