ROCKY RIVER, Ohio — The fitness center at the Don Umerley Civic Center will be undergoing a significant expansion that will add approximately 2,000 square feet of new workout space.
The expansion follows the Cleveland Clinic Center for Autism’s relocation from the civic center at 21016 Hilliard Blvd. to 19800 Detroit Road.
At a recent City Council meeting, Councilman Paul Shipp presented an ordinance authorizing the mayor and the director of public safety services to enter into a contract with SONA Construction LLC for the fitness center expansion.
The project, which is not to exceed $400,000, was approved following a competitive bidding process.
The new space will open up the second floor of the Rocky River fitness center and provide improved usage for members.Kathleen Barnard, special to cleveland.com
“Several potential uses were evaluated, and it was determined that expanding this area would best meet the needs of our residents,” Shipp explained during the meeting.
According to Rocky River Director of Recreation Bob Holub, “The space has been occupied by several tenants over the years and most recently the Cleveland Clinic Autism Center.
“After they gave us notice that they’d outgrown the space, we decided now was a great time to pivot and expand the fitness center.
“The growth will allow us to add some much needed strength training equipment and rearrange some of our existing equipment,” Holub said.
As part of the lease termination agreement, the Cleveland Clinic was required to return the space to its original condition.
Rather than managing the demolition themselves, the clinic provided a financial payout to assist with the city’s renovation costs.
The fitness center at the Don Umerley Civic Center in Rocky River will undergo an expansion and renovation.
“Since the building’s original design, fitness has really shifted, and folks are interested in incorporating more strength training with their cardio workouts,” Holub said.
“This re-envisioned space will allow us to provide that at a level we currently cannot.”
The expansion project proposal includes:
• Removal of existing drywall and drop ceiling from the former clinic space
• Removal of a manager’s office at the top of the stairs on the second floor
• Raising utilities to align with the existing open ceiling deck
• Painting exposed ceiling decking to match current fitness center finishes
• Installation of rubberized flooring throughout the new area
• Addition of mirrors and a water fountain
• New fitness equipment, including additional stair-stepping machines
Construction is expected to begin in late winter.
The fitness center will remain operational during construction, though some areas may have restricted access during the renovation period.
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