Last week saw the beginning of the construction for the Rock Island Visitors Center. Plans include the building hosting The Rock Island Train Museum. The visitors center is a project of the Gerald Development Association (GDA). The site of the building project is 255 S. Main Street, just south of Hometown Market.

Originally, the project was expected to cost $250,000 to complete. Otis Schulte, president of the GDA, now believes the project can be done for less due to a large influx of volunteer labor and donated materials. Schulte hopes to get the foundation completed before winter sets in. Framing will begin next spring.

As of last week, $29,189 has been donated for the cause.

Kathy Foy, GDA member, says these donations come from those living in Gerald and many who have roots here.

Foy says, “Our mission is to promote tourism for the Gerald community with a focus on visitors traveling historic U.S. Highway 50, riding the Rock Island Trail, visiting local businesses,using our industries’ products, and sharing in our rich history.”

A temporary visitors center has been set up at 360 S. Main, next to the Gerald Cafe. It includes a Made in Missouri gift shop to support local businesses and farmers.

The GDA members are also busy making plans for the U.S. Highway 50 Centennial Celebration. Highway 50 is the longest U.S. highway, running from coast to coast.

The GDA encourages everyone to join in building the Rock Island Visitor Center with donations, materials, and volunteer time.

You may mail donations to:

Gerald Development Association. P.O. Box 91, Gerald, MO  63037.

Donor names will be placed on plaques at the Visitor Center Walk of Fame.

Donations are tax deductible.

More information can be found at http://www.rockislandvisitorcenter.com.