Phase 1 Renovations to the Boys & Girls Club of Alachua County Complete

The first phase in a series of planned renovations for the Northwest Unit of the Boys and Girls Club of Alachua County located at 2661 NW 51st St. Gainesville, are now complete.

Interior upgrades to the recreation facility were completed by Scorpio on October

28, approximately $15,000 under budget. New ceilings, flooring and lighting transformed the general-purpose room that welcomes visitors and members to the club. A small kitchen area was built bringing the facility up to code. New paint throughout the space, along with a bank of donated lockers and the addition of two donated pool tables and a ping pong table help create a fun space where children can safely spend time after school. One of the most important upgrades for the facility was the installation of new interior and exterior doors. Inadequate hardware and installation in the past had caused safety concerns and numerous doors had been removed to prevent possible injury. New door frames and hardware now make it possible to secure areas and separate spaces, so students can do homework without being disrupted by those who are playing.

Local business leaders united to plan and fund these upgrades. Monies raised throughongoing efforts over the last seven years, coupled with The Rotary Club of Gainesville Foundation’s Wild Game Feast Grant, paid for the majority of the facility’s improvements.

Scorpio donated construction management services and architectural and interior design services were donated by Kail Partners Architecture & Interior. Several local businesses jumped on board offering in-kind donations, including furniture and material led by major contributions from Lowes and significant gifts from McLeod General Trades.

Additional renovations are actively being planned to both the facility and athletic fields. Monies contributed through Doug Johnson’s Reeling for Kids Fishing Tournaments, will be funding major field improvements to assist the club’s athletic department.  CHW Engineering is donating the services needed to plan and design these new upgrades that will include improvements to the existing football field, the addition of a full football field, and a practice

field. These improvements will allow the Club to increase youth tackle football participation and add flag football and lacrosse to the sports lineup offered.

The Club still requires some major work on the interior of the facility and mechanical work. The HVAC system is in desperate need of replacement.  Next on the list of interior renovations at the Northwest Unit is; complete the remodel of main hallway and all classrooms, install air conditioning throughout the occupied spaces, and remodel the gymnasium with upgraded flooring and hardware.

This coalition’s mission for the project is to foster development for youth in the

community by making improvements to one of its most crucial after school education and recreational centers.

“On behalf of the staff and volunteers of the Boys & Girls Club of Alachua County I want to personally thank all of the wonderful local organizations, companies, and individuals that give of their time, talents, and treasure to sustain and advance the mission of the Club,” said the club’s Executive Director, Shane Johnson. “It’s because of efforts like these renovation projects that we are able to continue serving the youth of Alachua County in first class facilities.”

“The team at Scorpio believes whole-heartedly in our mission focused on community centered construction”, said Domenic Scorpio, President of Scorpio. “Having the privilege of serving on the Boys and Girls Club Board for a number of years, two as President, it is fantastic to see these improvements to the club. Our company is honored to be a part of this effort contributing our management services. I think everyone knows how important this organization is for the community and the kids it serves. I encourage everyone to do what they can, it makes a difference.”

The project is continuing to seek funding and in-kind donations from other community members and organizations interested in joining this effort.