The fitness center inside the Jewish Community Center of Greater New Haven reopened Wednesday in Woodbridge just over a year after a fire caused extensive damage to the facility.

As News 12 reported, the fire started in the men's sauna and caused fire, smoke, and water damage to much of the building.

The facility's pool, racquetball courts and early learning center opened over the summer. Over the next several weeks, construction will wrap up for the gymnasium, climbing walls, locker rooms and cafe.

A massive cleanup and renovation effort meant programs were temporarily moved to several different area facilities.

CEO Judy Alperin says some members even got to the building just after 5 a.m. because they couldn't wait to get back inside.

The renovation plan for the JCC was decided with input from the community and includes upgrades that extend beyond what insurance covered, undertaking a $2 million capital campaign to help fund it.

The grand rededication ceremony is set for March 18.