Mondee Tilley
Heartland Publications


DOBSON -- Elkin Recreation Director Brent Cornelison approached the Surry County Board of Commissioners at its most recent meeting to request $500,000 for improvements to the Elkin Recreation Center.

Cornelison told the board the expansion would help Elkin attract families and businesses. It will also provide a gymnasium for Elkin Middle School.

He explained to the board why the recreation center needs to be expanded and renovated.

"Revenue and participation increased over 300 percent with two prior renovations to our fitness areas. We need to expand due to public response. With the expansion, we will be able to combat childhood obesity, which we all know has become a problem and we will continue to attract families and businesses."

Randy Bledsoe, Elkin City Schools superintendent, also participated in the presentation.

"It is a privilege to be here to be representing Elkin City Schools, we are going to share with you our vision."

Cornelision told the board that this is not a plan that came about last week. He has been working on the plan for the renovation and expansion for more than a year.

"We set up meetings with staff and users to discuss current and future needs of the community. The recreation center is currently used every day during basketball season for practices and on rainy days, and for soccer, baseball and softball seasons," Cornelison said.

Other town of Elkin facilities used by Elkin City Schools includes tennis courts, two softball fields, one baseball field, two soccer fields, a swimming pool and picnic shelters.

"Elkin Middle School is without a gym and construction of an on campus gym is a long-range plan. The cost of a new gym on campus would cost approximately $5 to $7 million dollars. The $500,000 would pay for gym renovations to provide the middle school with a gym for practices and games immediately after school. Team members can ride a school bus to the recreation center."

Cornelison explained that the expanded facility would include a teen fitness room.

"This expansion will enhance our facility for everyone, from teens to senior citizens. You ask, how can Surry County help? You can allocate $500,000 in the 09-10 budget," Cornelison said.

Commissioner Chairman Craig Hunter responded by saying, "I was sitting here thinking this is economic development, during your presentation."

Commissioner Johnson said he wanted to discuss the allocation in a upcoming planning retreat.

"It's good to see towns and schools partner together," said commissioner Jim Harrell.

"It's a good opportunity for the middle school to have a gymnasium. I suggest we make it a top priority at our retreat," said Harrell.

"It's a good time to talk about that and it's our responsibility to take care of our schools," said Hunter. "Come back in January to talk to us about this."

About 25 people in attendance stood up when asked who thought the Elkin recreation expansion was a good idea.

Mondee Tilley is a staff reporter with the Mount Airy News. She may be contacted at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.