Blue Ridge gets new library

On Monday afternoon in Blue Ridge, a shiny gold shovel inched its way into the earth at the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new library complex. The 3,026 sq. ft. space, which will be located right beside the Berry Nice Spray Park, will feature a library with reading nook, large meeting room, warming up area for skaters, and three public washrooms. The complex will be a sight to behold architecturally with beautiful wood columns outside along the front and rear entrances, ceiling character, and nice flooring. The most stunning part of the building will be its natural light as there are 15 doors and 26 windows in the design.

Blue Ridge Councillor Daniel Pritchard shared great news about the financial side of the county-covered project, “The price came in under budget and the Veterans Avenue road construction came in half a million under budget. That will allow us to pave the new parking lot next year.” Pritchard added that he hopes to have a Christmas party in the library, should it be completed in time. Woodlands County Mayor Jim Rennie was also on hand at the ceremony and is very excited about the development. “It’s a great investment in our community. It combines recreation and library with community socializing, and I can’t think of anything more important in a community than those three things.” The playground has been temporarily removed and will be placed closer to the spray park upon completion of the building. Other dignitaries included in the groundbreaking were Dale McQueen (Goose Lake/Freeman River Councillor), Chad Merrifield (Whitecourt-West Councillor), and Ron Govenlock (Whitecourt-Central Councillor). Be sure to check out the development when you come to Blue Ridge for the 3rd Annual Logging Days from September 23 to 25.