Weaverville – Just weeks away from opening to the public, the new Community Center at Dottie Sherrill Knoll is nearing completion, and the Tribune got a sneak peek.
Weaverville Public Works Director Dale Pennell showed off the new facility, which is sure to “wow” the public and make Weavervilleians proud. The masterful incorporation of building materials from the old community center, including wormy chestnut and rock, is sure to be appreciated by all.
The tour of the structure started in the kitchen area. Pennell says it is just a step down from a commercial kitchen and will provide a modern food preparation area for those renting the facilities for weddings, meetings and more.
The great room is named for Albert Weaver, who donated a large sum to see the facility constructed. He is a descendent of Jacob Weaver, for which the town is named. The room features modern chandeliers that shine down as well as up, with many light options to suit the mood of the room. A sound system with separate controls and speakers for music and orators and a large gas fireplace are present. The rock work for the fireplace and the foundations and columns all come from the old community center.
Large, built-in display cases for the Dry Ridge Museum exhibits line the corridor. The town may also display awards in the cases. The cases and much of the walls feature the old community center’s wormy chestnut. A smaller room in the new structure can be used for community events, meetings and exercise classes.
A large part of the building has been developed to house the Dry Ridge Museum with a display area which Dry Ridge Museum Director Jan Lawrence and her board will put to good use. The museum will also have a large storage area and a room for conducting research with museum archives.
Outside, facing Lake Louise is a large covered porch with a beautiful view of the lake. A parking area on the opposite side of the building has brick pavers with a great appearance and functional for stormwater control. The building should open in mid-July.