Grant Park Recreation Center Upgrade

By Alisa Chambers
You may have noticed construction-type things happening over at the Grant Park Recreation Center. The Center underwent some major renovation work and the project is now in closeout. Claudia Ledwich, Project Manager with Silverman Construction Program Management, provided some insight on the upgrade. The work included, but was not limited to, the following:
Renovations to make the facility ADA compliant include:

• New ADA accessible restrooms on lower and upper levels
• Elevator to access second level (limited use/limited access)
• New entrance that eliminates center stairs to main entrance

Usability renovations include:

• Gym renovations
• Restriping and refinishing of the gym floor (the difference is incredible!)
• New motorized gym bleachers
• Dance studio, arts and crafts, computer room, kitchen, laundry and storage renovations and additions
• New warming kitchen with new appliances (freezer, refrigerator, ice maker, microwaves)
• New wood floor and other finishes in the dance hall

Exterior alcoves that previously attracted unwanted activity were enclosed as storage spaces

Aesthetic renovations include:

• New floors, ceilings and paint throughout; new light fixtures in select areas
• Cleaned-up exterior and added exterior lights

New systems to address Life Safety, HVAC, security and usability include:

• New HVAC system serving most of the first floor (upper level system had been replaced three years ago)
• New fire alarm system for safety
• New security system
• New doors and hardware throughout for usability and safety
• Reconfigured railings for life safety
• Dumpster pad with wash-down
• Other miscellaneous safety and systems repairs and/or upgrades

Please visit the new Center if you haven’t already and admire all the work that has been done.
Silverman Construction Program Management is a team of professionals experienced in managing the complexities of commercial construction programs. They serve a diverse blend of nonprofit, community minded and government organizations, plus private sector organizations, institutions, and corporations. The hallmark of their firm is its dedication to serving the client in an environment of trust, objectivity, and open communication, free from conflicts of interest.