ARLINGTON — When the clock struck 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 29, downtown Arlington proceeded to “Rock Around the Clock” to commemorate the completion of a project that’s been on the Downtown Arlington Business Association’s to-do list for years.

“This day has been one of our long-term goals,” DABA President Debora Nelson said during the dedication of the new town clock on Olympic Avenue, near Legion Park and next to the city of Arlington parking lot. “It’s a beautiful clock that conveys a sense of community here in the downtown area.”

Nelson credited Mary Green, a local business owner and longtime Arlington resident, with having the vision to inspire downtown businesses to purchase the town clock, which they did through the proceeds of various DABA fundraisers throughout the years, including the annual Show ‘N Shine Car Show.

“I’m really proud of our merchants,” said Nelson, before she cited the support of the rest of the community. “By turning out for and taking part in these events, you all helped make this happen too.”

The Arlington City Council accepted DABA’s gift at their Aug. 1 meeting. According to Nelson, DABA organized and covered the cost of the installation of the clock with the help of project manager Terry Marsh, city Recreation Coordinator Sarah Lopez, Cuz Concrete and Donnelson Electric.

“The guys who helped to lift this hefty clock are retired Arlington Fire Chief Jim Rankin, Jay Downing, and David and Justin Klein,” Nelson said. “The thought has been there for many, many years.”

Green’s official cutting of the ceremonial ribbon shortly after 11:30 a.m. was followed by a rousing rendition of Bill Haley’s “Rock Around the Clock.”

The clock was purchased from East Bay Clock Company and stands 12 feet tall. It’s made of heavy cast iron, with gold trim and an unbreakable face. Nelson described its style as complementary to historic downtown Arlington, and estimated that the cost of its purchase and installation adds up to an approximately $9,000 investment in the city.

“We felt it was important to accomplish a longtime goal such as this, and to demonstrate to the city our support and commitment to the success of downtown Arlington,” Nelson said.