(PHOTO) La construction d'une nouvelle communauté locale commence à Loki près de Žusmo

Construction has begun on a new local community center in Loka near Žusm, part of the municipality of Šentjur. The project marks a significant step in improving infrastructure for one of the more remote areas within the municipality. Šentjur is known for its fragmented structure, with several local communities situated across different municipal boundaries. This complexity has necessitated continuous investment in essential services such as water supply and road networks. According to Šentjur mayor Marko Diaci, the water network alone spans over 560 kilometers, comparable to the distance from Ljubljana to Belgrade or nearly to Niš. These investments are crucial for maintaining life in smaller, more isolated villages, alongside schools and community spaces where residents can gather and engage in social activities. The signing of the contract for the new community center was attended by Srečko Krajnčan, president of the Loka near Žusm local community, and Mayor Marko Diaci. The old, dilapidated building in the background will eventually be demolished and replaced with a parking lot. The existing facility, however, will remain in use until September next year, allowing time for the new center to be completed. Krajnčan described the current building as damp and deteriorating, noting that moisture from a nearby stream had seeped into the walls. He explained that the decision to demolish the existing structure and build anew came after much consideration. An adjacent former guesthouse was previously purchased and demolished to make space for the new center. Krajnčan emphasized that this moment represents a pivotal point in his two-decade tenure as head of the local community. He stated that the project required substantial financial effort, with funds saved over the past three to four years specifically for the new construction. The municipality played a key role in securing approvals and managing paperwork to bring the project to fruition. The total cost of the new community center is estimated at €680,000. While this is a considerable expense compared to investments in primary schools and kindergartens, Krajnčan argued that maintaining rural habitation requires such commitments. He highlighted the importance of polycentric development within the municipality, ensuring equitable living conditions for all residents across its vast area of 222 square kilometers and 13 local communities. In addition to the new community center, plans include improvements to the nearby stream. The area around Loka near Žusm, home to approximately 750 residents, will see further development. A hilltop location housing the church, school, fire station, community center, and shop will be designated for future constructions. Diaci noted that over ten years ago, basic infrastructure such as water supply and road connections were established to ensure residents could stay in the area. Energy-efficient renovations have been carried out at the local primary school and kindergarten, providing excellent conditions for students. Last year, 29 children attended the school, indicating that the presence of educational institutions in smaller communities like Kalobje is vital for retaining population. The proximity of the stream has long contributed to the dampness of the existing community center in Loka near Žusm. However, the new facility will address these issues while simultaneously enabling the Water Directorate to undertake improvements to the Soteska stream, including the construction of a bridge and embankment. These combined efforts aim to enhance both the functionality and sustainability of the local community, supporting continued habitation in rural areas through improved infrastructure and environmental management.