After learning that the Wheeling Park Commission would receive federal funding, the hope is to now put it to use at Oglebay.

As part of the Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Program supported by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the commission is set to receive $5.62 million for renovations at historic Hess Hall inside the Crispin Center.

"The Crispin Center Pine Room building is an iconic structure here at Oglebay Park,” said Eric Janelsins, president/CEO of the Oglebay Foundation. “It was built in 1938, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps as outgrowth from the Depression. So, it's really an iconic structure. It really speaks to the resilience of our community."

When first built, crews used locally made materials, and since then, it's served as a place to gather. From recreation to celebration, it serves as a central point of the park located near the pool and Crispin Golf Course.

It also serves as a venue for weddings and other special events.

Now, the goal is to keep the structure -- specifically the outside of the building -- in good shape for the next 100 years.

"The stone facade needs a lot of attention,” Janelsins said. “The mortar will be redone, as well as sealing that stonework. So, that's the bulk of what we are going to do. We are also going to address a lot of the gutters and the downspout work.

“It's really about the outside piece, and once we are able to do that, then the park commission -- from using our private investment from gifts from the community - will be able to bring new activity and life to that building."

Janelsins says they'll have more information on the project soon.

He added that while a budget is approved, there is not yet a start date for the project.

"We are grateful for how that connects with all the other investments that are being made in the park,” Janelsins said. “From the Wilson Lodge, made a couple of years ago, to the work right now going on at the zoo, it's really going to create an entirely new experience. An upgraded Oglebay for the next 100 years."