The current exterior of the Tri-Counties Community Center in Marysville is shown with a proposed rendering inset, offering a glimpse of how the building could look following planned renovations through the Nor-Cal Step Up project. Photo courtesy of Nor-Cal Siders

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - A full-scale renovation of the Tri-Counties Community Center is moving closer to reality as Nor-Cal Siders, city leaders and community partners rally behind a project aimed at preserving one of Marysville's most-used community spaces.

In April, Nor-Cal Siders announced the Tri-Counties Community Center as its 2026 project, an effort tied to its developing nonprofit branch, Nor-Cal Step Up. Since then, the campaign has gained momentum, with approximately $400,000 in materials, donations and support already pledged toward what organizers describe as a more than $1 million renovation goal.

“I first came here to help patch the roof, but then I saw how much more needed to be done and how many people were here using the building,” said Armando Chavez, owner and president of Nor-Cal Siders. “We don't just have our kids here; we have our elderly, our special needs community and at-risk people. The quality of our community center reflects the quality of our community, and together, I know we can make this a better place for everybody.”

The 18,000-square-foot center serves an estimated 30,000 people each year through programs such as skate night, bingo, improv, archery, senior activities, youth programs and other free or low-cost community events. After years of deferred maintenance and storm-related damage, however, the building is in need of major repairs, including roof work, insulation, interior upgrades and improvements that would allow the nonprofit to better sustain itself long term.

The renovation plan goes beyond basic repairs. Chavez said the goal is to transform the building into a cleaner, safer and more functional community hub while also creating new revenue opportunities for the nonprofit. Proposed improvements include a complete kitchen remodel that could support rentals for food preparation and cottage food businesses, upgraded bathrooms, rentable meeting and classroom spaces, a second ballroom or event space separate from the main hall and a solar roof.

Several major partners have already stepped forward. According to campaign materials, ABC Supply Co. Inc. is donating CertainTeed roofing materials; Sherwin-Williams of Yuba City is supplying durable paint for the center's interior spaces; Meek's Lumber is donating framing lumber; and James Hardie is donating exterior siding materials for the project.

The campaign emphasizes a broader goal of ensuring the center remains “a safe, welcoming and desirable place for learning, sharing and gathering.”

“This would be a dream come true for our center,” said Peggy DeHaan, treasurer of the Tri-Counties Community Center board. “It's not just about us. It's about making sure this place stays available for the community long into the future.”

Recent regional coverage has also brought additional attention to the project. CBS Sacramento reported that the center has experienced leaking roofs, falling insulation and moisture issues, and that the City of Marysville is supporting the effort by waiving permit fees. The report also noted that Chavez and Nor-Cal Siders are calling on additional businesses, contractors and community members to help complete the project.

While early support has been significant, Chavez said the project still needs another major push from the community to reach the finish line. In addition to monetary donations, Nor-Cal Step Up is seeking supply donations, skilled tradespeople, contractors, volunteers and business partners willing to assist with the renovation.

Those interested in partnering with Nor-Cal Siders on the Nor-Cal Step Up project can contact [email protected]. Donations also can be made through the "Nor-Cal Step Up 2026: Rebuild Tri-Counties" campaign or at http://triccmarysville.com.