The Montgomery County Senior Center is moving into a newly constructed facility across the street from its current location. The new senior center, operated by Gateway Area Development District, has several amenities for seniors like an exercise and wellness center and a large dining room for congregate meals.
Joshua Farrow, executive director of Gateway Area Development District, said the project has been a long time coming. He added that many seniors and other involved members of the community are eager for the new center to open.
“Projects like these take a while to implement, but thankfully things have gone very smoothly with construction,” he said. “I know the Montgomery County Fiscal Court, the city of Mount Sterling, and certainly our staff are very excited that the ribbon cutting is upon us.”
Due to changes in legislation, the future of congregate meals and other benefits for seniors in the community is unclear. Farrow said the board is currently reviewing changes to Medicaid and SNAP to ensure they operate within the new guidelines.
“When and if any decisions are made by our board of directors, we will be able to release information on potential impacts at that time. Until our board makes some decision, at this time, we are still business as usual,” said Farrow.
Despite an inconsistent and unpredictable economy, the senior center was constructed without any major obstacles. Officials from Montgomery County and members of the development district are hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony on opening day.
The new Senior Center will officially open on September 29. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to noon.