BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Construction on the new double gymnasium for the recreation department has finally started after a three-month delay.

The construction firm BKM out of Braselton, GA fell behind on its projects and pushed back the start date multiple times. Paris mentioned in last month’s commissioner’s meeting that the county was prepared to look elsewhere is BKM didn’t start construction in Oct. However, now, all the footings are poured as well as the reinforced concrete support for the steel beams. The beams should arrive in Nov.

“The structure is a total of 31,565 sq. ft. with two gymnasiums separated by offices, restrooms, dressing rooms and a meeting room.  The upstairs area will allow storage for all equipment.  There will be an inside walking trail on the main floor,” explained Commissioner Lamar Paris.

The gym will be open to youths and adults. It will offer exercise classes, dancing, aerobics, volleyball, and additional fitness classes.

Paris addressed why they decided to build the facility, “The need for this has accelerated as the growth in the basketball programs has been steady or the last few years and the fact that new security issues for the school system have prevented use of the existing basketball courts as we have been able in the past.”

Adjacent to the double gym and behind the health department will be eight new pickleball courts. The asphalt for the courts has been poured and fencing is currently being installed. The final lining will be applied afterward. The courts might be completed by the end of the year, but the bathroom and small pavilion won’t be completed until late spring or early summer – the same time as the gym.

The Meeks Park pavilion should complete paving and landscaping by spring as well.

Additionally, GDOT and the county are working on an access road from Hwy. 515 to School Circle, but will probably be delayed until next year.