Carter Infinger, Bryan County Commission Chairman.
Bryan County will break ground on two new Senior Services Centers this year; one in Pembroke and one in Richmond Hill. The first to start construction is a part of a partnership with Carrington Town Center in Richmond Hill. The 55+ community has worked with Bryan County to provide a 8,300 sq.ft. facility on the first floor of their building for 15 years rent free with a favorable least for another five years. This facility will be open to the public and allow Senior Services to expand the programs they can offer to the residents of Richmond Hill.
A Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is paving the way for a new Senior Services Center in Pembroke as well. The $1 million grant is from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs will partially fund the center on land that was donated by the City of Pembroke. A draft floor plan has been completed and construction drawings are underway. Building is expected to begin at the end of 2024 and be complete in late 2025 or early 2026.
Both centers will allow for more space and expanded services as the senior population of Bryan County grows. I know that Sally Shuman, the Senior Citizen’s Director has had a long waitlist of residents who would like to join senior center events such as crafts and game groups and exercise classes. The Richmond Hill center offers a Men’s Club Breakfast group, and both centers offer regular meal services. Both centers also frequently offer group trips to nearby destinations such as Jekyll Island or St. Augustine.
These senior centers are important services provided by Bryan County. They not only offer a place for seniors to go outside of their homes, but it offers access to support services for sometimes difficult subjects like healthcare and social services. These services help them to stay healthy and independent and through the supportive friendships that are developed, seniors have lower stress and are generally happier. I am excited to help bring these new centers to Bryan County, and I am thankful that you have chosen me to be your chairman.