The Rockmart Senior Center will be relocated to the former Rockmart Library building in early May.

Seniors are currently housed in what was once known as the “county building” near the Veterans Memorial, downtown.

Rockmart City Manager Jeff Ellis said the move is part of an initiative launched about 12 years when officials decided to find a better place for senior activities.

In 2003, a group of Rockmart officials and community leaders made a trip to Washington to seek an appropriation package. However, the request was never fulfilled.

Meanwhile, plans were also being made to build a new library, which is now a part of the Municipal Complex on Piedmont Avenue.

A budget of $20,000 was set to renovate the 5,500 square foot former library structure. The scope of work included replacing the office and main social area, installation of tile in the eating area and kitchen, new counter tops and required plumbing, tables, chairs and other interior furnishings.

In addition, crews replaced most of the carpet, painted walls and placed an accessibility ramp at the back entrance. Only minor work was needed due to storm damage last fall when the roof was replaced and units moved.

Ellis said landscaping will also be completed and a walkway built to give access to the Silver Comet Trail.

Seniors are currently housed in what was once known as the “county building” near the Veterans Memorial, downtown.

The old senior building will be used for a Silver Comet Trailhead, according to Ellis.

“We plan to put vending machines in the space to allow cyclists a place to rest as they travel along the trail,” he said. “We think it is ideal for this purpose.”

The building is located near the Silver Comet Trail in the downtown Rockmart.

Ellis said he has talked with volunteers who have indicated they will support opening the trailhead.



“They have agreed to be at the site during the day. Rockmart police officers will open and close it,” he said.