While it might seem like much of life’s business has come to a halt, Warren County Handicapped Services is carefully moving forward on plans to build a brand-new facility in Warrenton.

The organization provides personal services, skill building and recreation activities for people with developmental disabilities. Most of the services are on hold due to COVID-19.

Executive Director Kelly Clodfelter said she’s nevertheless determined to continue preparing for construction of a 4,900-square-foot facility at the corner of South Highway 47 and Dry Fork Road.

“We are definitely moving along. We’re waiting for the environmental review to be done, which is in process,” Clodfelter said. “We’re looking at hopefully no later than June to break ground.”

The facility will replace Handicapped Services offices that are currently located in a former home on First Street. Construction is being funded in part by a $500,000 Missouri community development block grant.

To make sure the planning isn’t delayed and construction can continue on schedule, Clodfelter said her agency and those assisting them in the project have had to figure out the best way to confer with each other remotely.

“I’m thankful for technology that allows some of this work to proceed despite offices being closed,” she commented.

Technology is also allowing Handicapped Services to stay in touch with clients and offer them some activities they can do at home.

“We are doing videos and sending our activities on our Warren County Handicapped Services Facebook page to stay interactive with our clients. We strongly encourage anyone who has not liked our page to do it so they can keep up with everyone,” Clodfelter said.

The new facility is expected to be completed before the end of 2021. Once finished, Handicapped services will be able to expand daily programs to include around 65 clients, in a custom-built space rather than a retrofitted house.

Clodfelter said Handicapped Services is still seeking more funding to help complete the project. To that end, the agency has been approved to distribute state tax credits to businesses that donate for the project. Tax credits can reimburse 70 percent of a donation, Clodfelter said.

She added that she’s eager for the day the agency can begin offering daily programs again. The only in-person service currently being provided is living assistance for clients in independent homes, Clodfelter said.

“The amazing staff ... have not missed a beat at caring for our clients,” she commented. “Without all these amazing staff, we would not be able to be successful through this pandemic.”