Bill Neuens Enterprise kickstarted the new outdoor playground project at the Imagination Factory Community Center in Iron Mountain last week by demolishing the old boiler building that heated the former school. The added space will allow for a Gus Macker basketball court, pickleball courts, outdoor exhibit, seating and play area. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Bill Neuens Enterprise made huge impact last week to get the new outdoor playground space ready for the Imagination Factory Community Center in Iron Mountain.

The crew spent a day and a half on demolition of the old boiler building that heated the former school.

“They removed 23,000 pounds of materials off the site,” Imagination Factory Executive Director Barb Reisner said.

She explained the new facility will be heated with forced gas furnaces.

The extra space will allow for landscaping, staff parking, Connor Sports 3-on-3 Gus Macker Basketball Court, two pickleball courts, three outdoor exhibits, and a play structures. There will also be room for an outdoor eating area.

The Imagination Factory Community Center Board of Directors thanked Neuens and his crew for making this important play area available for children and families visiting the community center.

“Bill Neuens has contributed so much to the economic development of the community and he especially loves to make a difference in the lives of children,” Reisner said.

The Imagination Factory Community Center Capital Campaign continues to raise the funds needed to open the doors of the first floor children’s museum. To donate to mail contributions to Imagination Factory, P.O. Box 906, Iron Mountain, MI 49801.

“We are excited to see the progress and with the community help with the campaign we look forward welcoming visitors to this winter,” she added.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.