New Visitor Center for Downtown Ellijay

A historic building is getting a new occupant in Downtown Ellijay. Dr. Watkins’ Carriage House will be the new home for a Downtown Welcome center as the result of a joint effort between Gilmer County, The City of Ellijay, The Better Hometown Program, Dedicated Ellijay Merchants & Associates (DEMA), and The Chamber of Commerce. Gilmer County, owner of the property, has agreed to allow the use of the property at no cost. An agreement is in the works to provide for the maintenance, staffing, promotion and furnishing of the Center. The Better Hometown Manager will relocate her office from City Hall to the Center. Volunteers will be used to staff the Center and provide information to visitors.

The Welcome Center location has housed many occupants since Dr. Watkins had it constructed as his carriage house. The last occupant was the Gilmer County Voters Registration Office, prior to that the County Extension Service occupied the site.

A walkway will be constructed that will connect the County Parking Lot, the Welcome Center and the square. Visitors will now have a site in Downtown Ellijay to pick up brochures and find out about activities and events in “The Ellijays”. No date has been set for occupancy as the building requires some renovation. Hopefully occupancy will occur during the summer months so it can be fully operational for late summer and fall activities.