SMOKEY POINT — When renovations to the Main Hall at Stillaguamish Senior Center are completed later this year, seniors from north Snohomish County can enjoy a bright, new gathering place.
“It will be a safe and inviting space,” said Jo Olson, executive director of the senior center. “We’re so excited and really looking forward to its completion.”
A community development grant from Snohomish County is funding the $245,000 renovation, which is scheduled to be finished by the end of November, Olson said.
Work on the gymnasium-size hall includes new electrical wiring, a heating and air conditioning system, and a new ceiling and sheetrock, to be topped off with a fresh coat of paint.
In addition, the hall is set to get a new floor, one that is cushioned enough to be easy on older knees and hips, Olson said.
Funding for the $30,000 new floor comes in part from the Happy Hoppers square dance club, which has pledged to donate at least $15,000 to the effort. Olson was able to get a matching grant of $15,500 from the Norcliffe Foundation of Seattle for the remainder of the cost.
The senior center, which was originally built in 1973 by senior volunteers, serves nearly 4,000 people a year, Olson said. The last renovation at the center was in 2003, when the front entrance and reception area were updated.
The Main Hall is home to bingo games, senior exercise and recreation classes, and the center’s social events. The hall also is rented by groups such as the square dance club and is a popular spot for wedding receptions, Olson said.
Senior center officials are hoping to attract more people who will rent the hall, since rental fees are one of its revenue sources, Olson said.
The Stillaguamish Senior Center is part of a larger campus that includes the center’s thrift store and low-income senior housing. In addition, 60 townhouses for those age 55 and older are being built next door, Olson said.
“With the work on the hall, we’re looking forward to having a very nice senior campus,” she said.
Reporter Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427 or gfiege@heraldnet.com.
Senior Center
The Stillaguamish Senior Center is at 18308 Smokey Point Blvd. in Arlington. For information about the center and its programs, call 360-653-4551.
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