FAIRBURY, Neb. -- The City of Fairbury is celebrating the grand reopening of the Fairbury Community Building on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 12:30 p.m.

The building was built in 1978, but has been temporarily closed. The building has seen many new improvements including new flooring, sidewalk, gutters, ceiling, etc. 

“The project came about because we had this wonderful building in our city park that we wanted to see used more often and used more effectively,” said Mayor Spencer Brown. “Ultimately, we are expanding the use of the community center as a whole.”

The project cost was $110,000 for building upgrades with the city receiving about $90,000 in grants from generous people and companies from around the area. Another $15,000 came from the city budget.

The building, which has already been used daily by the Blue Rivers Agency, is open for indoor walkers, pickleball, volleyball and basketball courts. The city is also planning on using the building for additional programming including gym usage.

“With the new Wi-Fi, large screen TV and speakers, we have seen an increase in the use by nonprofits and private parties for events such as church services, organizational meetings, musical performances, family events, tournaments and game-day parties,” Mayor Brown said.

Anyone would like to join the Senior Diners for lunch that day can make a reservation at 402-729-5258. Those 60 and older can give a suggested donation of $6 and those under 60, the cost is $9.