WHEELING, W.Va. — A long-planned redevelopment effort is now taking visible shape in North Wheeling, where the Bethlehem Apostolic Temple is moving forward with multiple renovations totaling more than $1 million.
In three years, the former Columbia Sales building is expected to be transformed into an indoor gymnasium for the community to use. The project has been in the works for 10 years, but demolition has now begun.
“We think that will help bring kids in and hopefully bring people in who want to live in our area and be a part of the answer,” said Bishop Darrell Cummings of the Bethlehem Apostolic Temple.
At the same time, work is underway inside the North Wheeling Community Dream Center, where leaders are preparing to open a new daycare center for children from birth through sixth grade.
“As I understand it, the daycare for new parents is one of the most expensive things, even if they both work. And it’s my understanding here in our area, there’s a two-year waiting list,” Cummings said.
An opening day has not yet been determined for the daycare center because organizers are still looking for providers to take over.