At the beginning of this year, much of the town staff moved into new quarters on the former Wakelon school campus. Among those who moved were members of the Parks and Recreation Department staff.

On Friday, that group will cut the ribbon on the town's next great asset -- the Zebulon Community Center.

After a number of delays by the Council of State -- the body of elected leaders serving statewide -- the town came into possession of the National Guard Armory on South Arendell Avenue.

The facility was no longer being used as a Guard facility and the town was able to purchase the property for just $1.

Several hundred thousand dollars later, though, the town has completed a renovation that will be on display for all to see.

The cost pales in comparison to what it would have cost the town to erect a similar facility from the ground up.

Now we all have an opportunity to see how that money has been used.

We think the public -- as it was with the Wakelon renovation -- will be pleased with what it finds.

Gone is the dark, industrial setting of the armory. In its place are bright, white walls and impressive technology.

The new community center makes good use of the available space and department leaders are planning a significant increase in programming once the center opens for business on Monday.

But this week, we have a chance to celebrate. An important building in our community has been given a new lease on life. It's the second time this year, the town has done that.

And it's the second time this year we believe area residents will be pleased with what they see.

Come out and join the celebration beginning Friday at 9 a.m.