Fair Street Neighborhood Center dedicated

GAINESVILLE - The Fair Street Neighborhood Center, dedicated Sunday, is the latest building to locate on what one long time citizen called "sacred ground."

Gainesville officials cut the ribbon on the 4,100-square-foot center that replaces the old Fair Street pool.

Fair Street Elementary School's Singing Tigers sang a "Song of Peace."

James Brooks of the Men's Progressive Club grew up nearby. He called himself the "old man of the neighborhood" as he recalled the site dated back nearly 100 years.

"This is sacred ground and we will utilize it wholesomely," Brooks said.

The center, according to the city's recreation facilities plan, helps fill the meeting place need. Mayor Myrtle Figueras said it represents better facilities to come.

"We're enjoying such a new era in recreation in the City of Gainesville," Figueras said. "I do hope that you see that the seed has been planted."

Figueras said on the horizon this year is completion of the Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, under construction with completion expected this summer.