Groundbreaking Delayed on Peg Bond Center Expansion Project

The Peg Bond Center expansion project got off to a remarkable start in spring 2008 as volunteers successfully raised $100,000 in 100 days to jump start the project. The ground breaking was originally scheduled for summer 2008, however, due to unforeseen challenges, the project suffered some set backs. “Unfortunately, a few unexpected challenges have caused a delay in the start date and scope of the project,” said Britta McKenna, Executive Director of Batavia MainStreet and expansion project committee member.

Project committee members, including the Batavia Parks Foundation, Batavia MainStreet and several local volunteers, met their first challenge after talking with focus groups to determine the future needs for the facility, such as structural changes and acoustics to accommodate school plays, theatre groups and bands.

The size and design of the project were modified to anticipate these future needs, and as a result of the modification, the cost of the project rose exponentially. The cost of the steel alone was more than $200,000. “This change, combined with the design review process with the City of Batavia Community Development Department left us wondering how to modify the structure to meet community needs and keep within our total budget of approximately $200,000,” said McKenna.

A new challenge arose when the committee was dealing with keeping the new plan within budget. Major utilities were running beneath the proposed band shell complicating matters and further delaying the project. Despite the set backs, organizers remain optimistic that the project will be set for a spring groundbreaking.

"The planning group has been working on resolving the remaining issues, primarily with utility access and structural costs,” said Dan Brace, chairman of the Batavia Parks Foundation. Brace is hopeful to begin construction later this spring and looks forward to having the community view the progress throughout the summer. “We also anticipate opportunities for citizens of all ages to be able to lend a hand," he said.

For more information about the expansion project, please visit www.its-coming.org or call the Batavia Park District at 630.879.5235.