Scouts open headquarters

OREM — After using parts of the new Utah National Parks Council headquarters for about two years, the Boy Scouts of America celebrates an official grand opening for the entire facility Saturday.

The council recently completed a $700,000 renovation of the building, adding more than 11,000 square feet of usable space.

For the first time, the public is able to use the front doors rather than a temporary side entrance into the Scout store area. The most visible additions are the National Scout Shop, a new Council Services office and a guest reception center, said spokesman John Gailey.

Invited guests will get a tour of the newly refurbished executive offices on the upper level, Gailey said.

Specific, private donations were used to pay for the renovation rather than money raised in the annual Friends of Scouting drive.

The Scout shop is an extension of the national BSA supply organization giving local Scouts and their leaders immediate access to approximately 70 percent more items on the shelves. The center also acts as a distribution center for Scouts in other locations outside Utah County, said shop manager Chris Tomlinson.

"Because we're a National Scout Shop, other Council Scout Shops throughout the state will order inventory from us, so even Scouts in locations such as St. George will be able to get their supplies faster," he said.

Council Services department manager Jeanette Jensen said she expects her staff will be better able to serve visitors.

"People will come into the office and feel like they can be accommodated," she said, "Whether they are visiting the office for the first time or have trouble getting around, this will be a very comfortable, accessible place to take care of their needs."

The grand opening begins with a ribbon-cutting followed by a public viewing of the main floor.

If you go

What: Grand opening ceremony for Utah National Parks Council headquarters

Where: 748 N. 1340 West, Orem

When: 11:45 a.m., Saturday