Dimensions - March/April 2009 - 5
Recycling Municipal Facilities When the Washington Park District in Central Illinois purchased a former middle school for one dollar, it immediately began the process of evaluating and planning for the facility’s reuse. Purchased from the Washington School District, which had determined that it would be unable to expand on the site, the park district viewed the existing, three-story, 42,600square-foot building as an opportunity to provide recreation programs for the community’s benefit and well-being in a facility that might otherwise not be financially feasible. Adaptive Reuse a Good Investment The Washington Park District engaged Burnidge Cassell Associates, now known as PSA-Dewberry/BCA, to develop a facility master plan and design the facility improvements. The $2.9-million refurbishment cost approximately half that of new facility construction and allowed the agency to begin operation after investing an initial $482,900. Adaptive Reuse Proves Valuable to a Community’s Recreation Programs Improving the Curb Appeal New concrete sidewalks and an accessible ramp now provide safe access to the facility, while new trees improve shade on the west exterior building elevation. The greenscape was designed to lower cooling costs while enhancing the neighborhood’s streetscape. Exterior improvements also welcome visitors into the facility to explore the new amenities. Remodeling the entry corridors has provided an inviting look that appeals to the community. Upgrading the Gym During the planning process, PSADewberry/BCA identified the gym as the most valuable available space in the facility. The wood bleachers were removed; a new wood floor system was installed along with new basketball hoops and a divider curtain, to allow facility operators to run concurrent programs for multiple age groups. Good for the Environment By reusing the former middle school for recreation uses, the park district has extended the life cycle of the building, conserved resources, retained a significant community landmark, and reduced construction waste and potential negative environmental impacts from new construction. “The existing facility was too small and no longer fit the demands of the school. However the gym, classrooms, and activity areas were perfect for the needs of the park district,” says Washington Park District Executive Director Doug Damery. “The park district gained valuable space that it was lacking at a fraction of the cost of a new building: a true win-win situation.” Recognized for its exceptional achievement in design and development, the community center was awarded the 2008 Outstanding Facility and Parks Award from the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. 5
Dimensions - March/April 2009
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Dimensions - March/April 2009
Dimensions - March/April 2009
Contents
Engaging the Public
Checking in at Fort Belvoir
Recycling Municipal Facilities
Improving Outreach and Permitting
Topping Off Virtua Voorhees Hospital
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Contents
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Engaging the Public
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - 3
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Checking in at Fort Belvoir
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Recycling Municipal Facilities
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Improving Outreach and Permitting
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - 7
Dimensions - March/April 2009 - Topping Off Virtua Voorhees Hospital
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