The Arnold Center broke ground on its new expansion in May.  After many years of careful planning and collaborating with various community organizations, Three Rivers Construction is building the 14,000 square foot addition. It is hoped that the project will be completed by Spring of 2011, and optimistic President Charlie Markey says," We hope to be in by the first of the year."

 

The ground breaking ceremony marks the launch of a new era for the Arnold Center. The two biggest improvements to the facility are increased size to the production area and a new cafeteria. Everyone is excited about the extra space on the production floor, and is looking forward to seeing the new layout. The growing number of Arnold Center customers out-grew the small cafeteria, and several lunch periods became necessary. Now customers can look forward to eating with their friends, regardless of their work schedule.  Additionally, the expansion will allow for more office space for Case Managers and Accounting personnel, as well as a new classroom which will also double as a board room.

 

Among the participants in the ground breaking ceremony were various members of The Dow Chemical Foundation, the Midland Area Community Foundation, the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, the Doan Foundation, the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, and the Strosacker Foundation. Others who participated were Mayor Maureen Donker, Arnold Center Board Members Alice Strack and Bill Gaunt, former Arnold Center President Mike Shea, and long time Arnold Center customer Harold Hutchins.