Stanton progresses on Viking Center details

 STANTON — After almost four years of planning and fundraising, the city of Stanton and the Stanton Friends organization have announced the construction plans for the Viking Center. Construction on the 140’ x 120’ two story building will begin in April with a projected grand opening in December, according to a recent press release.

The Center was designed following a series of meetings in 2007, where community members discussed the challenges and concerns of the town. 

The Center will include a public library, preschool, multi-purpose/community room with a catering kitchen, health/wellness facility, gymnasium and FEMA-approved storm shelter with generator in case of severe weather or disaster in the community. Both levels of the building will have handicapped accessible entrances at the ground level.

Additionally, the facility will house a general lobby on the upper level, three offices, three public restrooms, locker rooms and several mechanical/storage areas. 

The $3.2 million construction cost has been raised by donations from more than 400 community members, alumni, businesses and foundations. 

In a cost saving effort, the building will be constructed using green techniques along with utilizing existing infrastructure including parking lots and utilities. 

Overall project work includes site demolition and preparation, utility connections and exterior/interior construction of a 25,350 square-foot building, which will be a composite of concrete, wood and frame steel. 

For more information on the project, visit www.stantonfriends.org.