Work crews from Kyle Construction are making headway on the new Wellness Center in Marlinton.

“It's just about completely under roof,” said Lauren Bennett, director of Pocahontas County Parks and Recreation. “Of course we've been fighting some weather now, but they've been working hard. There's one last section that needs a roof over top.”

Bennett said once the roof is completed, workers can finish up the duct work and sprinkler system and get heat going in the building. Bennett said the original plan called for interior work through the winter in order to be finished by a June deadline.

Bennett said other than slight weather-related delays, things are coming along well.

“Knock on wood — things have been going rather smoothly,” joked Bennett. “They were hoping to have it all enclosed by now. We got a little behind with weather, but they're close. I think the contractor was saying if he had a good solid week they would probably have it just about enclosed.”

Bennett said now that interior walls are going up, you can really start to see the potential in the new facility.

“The interior is looking like a building,” said Bennett. “You can walk through the hallways. Probably 90% of the interior framework is up, so you can walk into the bathroom, you can walk into the racquetball court.”

Bennett said the workers from Kyle Construction and their sub-contractors have been great to work with.

“Everything is supposed to be finished in June, and we actually have plans for a grand opening/dedication for Saturday, July 13, at eleven a.m.,” said Bennett.

Another much-anticipated project in Marlinton wrapped up for the season earlier in December. Marlinton mayor Joe Smith said the depot reconstruction project isn't completed, but workers are finished for the year.

“The outside is completely done,” said Smith. “They'll probably be back in March to begin work on the inside. Come March, they'll finish the interior, the public restrooms will be finished, and we're shooting to have a grand re-opening for Memorial Day weekend and the beginning of the tourist season.”

Smith said there haven't been any delays or setbacks, and the crew from Allegheny Restoration has been doing a fine job.

“They're a good company,” remarked Smith. “The depot committee board of directors is very pleased with the work they've done. It's been a good project. It's been a long time coming and it's nice to see it moving forward.”

Smith said once the project is completed, the depot will serve as an information center for the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“I think it looks just like it did before,” said Smith. “If you've ever seen a picture of it, it looks just like the old one.”