Ela Township Approves Firm For Renovation Of New Community Center

The Ela Township board recently approved a contract with Pathmann Construction Management, Inc. to oversee renovations at the post office building at 380 Surryse Road for a new community center.

The proposed Ela Township Community Center will ultimately house growing youth and senior programs, meeting space, and other recreational activities for township residents. The township expects to close on the property by the end of the month.

“The mechanics of the building are good and it is very well built so we will have minimal updating to achieve,” said Jeff Pathmann, architect and owner of Pathmann Construction Management, Inc. “We will be maximizing a large percentage of the space as it is today.”

The architectural drawings are nearly complete, in addition to a floor plan and demolition plan for smaller areas on the periphery of the building. Pathmann plans to present monthly updates to the board once the work begins.

Some of the proposed changes include the creation of multi-purpose and conference rooms for youth groups and other local groups to meet in, and offices for youth and senior programs. A garden, bocci ball courts and outdoor lighting are also planned.

A full kitchen, open gym and exercise area, climbing wall, and an area for ping pong, card games and pool tables are also proposed additions to the interior of the building.  

“We are excited about all of the new recreation opportunities and benefits the community center will provide for our residents,” said Lucy Prouty, township supervisor.

Pathmann Construction will be responsible for obtaining building permits for the renovations and will handle the public bidding for work on a new sprinkler system, plumbing, electrical and carpentry work.

The estimated cost of the project is expected to be around $200,000, 10 percent of which will be paid to Pathmann Construction Management, Inc., to cover overhead costs like permits, labor, dumpsters and other necessary equipment to move the project forward.

An additional 5 percent of the total project cost will be paid to Pathmann Construction Management, Inc., to compensate them for their services.  

Once the closing occurs and permits are obtained, Pathmann said the entire project should take about three months.

The firm also handled construction of the new Ela Town Hall, 1155 E. Route 22, and the concession stand at Knox Park, located adjacent to the town hall.

All post office operations will be moved to the Telser Road location off of Route 22 by the beginning of July.