The new Selma Welcome Center opened to the public Thursday afternoon.

“This is all the mayor’s dream and wish that there be a visitor’s center for folks that come in to our city to come to,” said Sheryl Smedley, director of the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce.

Smedley wants visitors to take information about Selma home with them.

“And they in return maybe they will come back and possibly live in Selma,” Smedley said.

Volunteers helped prepare the center starting in November. Some of those who donated their time were Karen Weir, Molly Gamble, Ann Thomas and Sandy Greene.

Candace Johnson and Smedley worked with the city Department of Planning and Community Development to see the building readied for the soft opening.

“This will be our actual center,” said Mayor Evans. “It’s more visible than in the library.”

The previous center was located within the Selma and Dallas County Library.

The library will continue to have brochures and other information for visitors who come in seeking more about Selma and Dallas County.

“We want to get the idea and fever in the air,” Evans said. “This is just the beginning to what we believe will be a great project. And, it’s going to get better as we go.”

The official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony will be in the middle of January.

The Welcome Center is located at 153 Broad Street. Hours of operation are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed Sunday.