Jackson Civic Center to open, still has needs

As fundraising efforts and equipment installation is underway, staff at the new Jackson Civic Center is preparing for the building's grand opening.

The project has been in the works since 2013, when plans to obitain a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant began. The facility, approved by FEMA in July 2014, will house a 1,990-person-capacity safe room in addition to recreation facilities.

The grand opening has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Jan. 24, but the facility still has many needs, fundraising committee chairwoman Kathy Johnson told the Southeast Missourian.

Donations have come from about 30 organizations and individuals, Johnson said, to help cover the cost of things such as coat racks, sports equipment, cleaning supplies and additional parking. All told, the items with set price tags come to more than $200,000.

"The Optimist Clubs were the first donors," Johnson said. "We were thankful that they gave a nice amount."

Those wishing to contribute still have time. Donors contributing before April 1 are considered "founding donors" and are eligible for inclusion in a founding donation wall display. Three sizes of personalized bricks are also available. Donors may stipulate their donation be used for a specific purpose or item.

Projects of this size are always the result of a dedicated group of individuals' time and talents. The city of Jackson now has a facility that will serve in many capacities for years to come. We congratulate those who have made the Jackson Civic Center possible.