The Franconia District Governmental Center officially opened its doors to the public as hundreds of residents, county officials, and local leaders gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 11. The new facility is intended to bring together a range of essential services for the Kingstowne area in one location.
The center aims to make it easier for community members to access government resources without traveling between multiple buildings. Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk said, “Located in the heart of the Franconia District, this facility will serve as a ‘one-stop shop’ for essential services for residents. Community members will be able to access my office, the police department, library services, childcare, adult resources and the Franconia Museum—all without ever leaving the building.”
Previously, county services in Kingstowne were scattered across small and outdated facilities. Construction on the new governmental center began in early 2023 with the goal of providing modern amenities and dedicated parking. The building now houses several key offices: the Franconia Police Station, Supervisor’s Office, an Active Adult Center, a childcare center serving infants through pre-kindergarten age children, and an expanded Kingstowne Regional Library occupying its top floor.
The site was built on vacant county-owned land located between Beulah Street, Silver Lake Boulevard and Interparcel Road—close to residential neighborhoods and local schools. Funding for different parts of the project came from two voter-approved bond referendums: one focused on public safety in 2015 that covered costs for police facilities and supervisor’s office space; another approved in 2020 provided funding for library improvements including space for older adults.
Jeffrey McKay, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors said: “This marks a major milestone for the Franconia community and reflects decades of planning, investment and strong voter support. This project is especially meaningful to me given my longstanding connection to the Franconia District…and having been able to help shepherd this project through every stage of the process to ensure its completion. I am grateful to…community members whose dedication made this vision a reality.”
Lusk added his optimism about what lies ahead: “I look forward to welcoming older adults…seeing families drop off their children at our childcare center…and watching residents of all ages visit our new regional library and our outstanding Franconia Museum… This will truly be a vibrant place that reflects our community and offers something for everyone in all walks of life.”
