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Renovation Q&A
A big part of the second phase of construction at the Leon & Toby Cooperman JCC has been completed. The Sharon and Stephen Seiden Early Childhood Center opened by welcoming the children back from their holiday break. Children and parents alike have delighted in exploring the new rooms, library, indoor playground, and more.
And Sunday, January 7 our members experienced the latest in state-of-the-art fitness as the Joan and Allen Bildner and Bildner Family Foundation Fitness Center opened. With over 9,000 square feet filled with the latest strength and cardio equipment, the fitness center has been the talk of the community. Adding to fitness floor are two new group exercise studios, a spacious reception area, and space to accommodate a physical therapy suite (to come in the near future.)
Next to the fitness center is the new Kid Care babysitting room. A bright, spacious area welcomes children from ages 6 weeks and up with expanded operating hours.
New family changing rooms are available, immediately adjecent to the new Kid Care babysitting room.
What's next?
Still to come:
o 13,000 sq. ft. open area that includes the new atrium (with Wi-Fi), kosher café, and reception area. The area is expected to open in late February.
o New 850 sq. ft. Art Gallery next to the Center for the Arts lobby.
o A new conference and party center in Robbins Hall accommodating 10 to 150 guests.
o A dedicated Jewish Health & Healing Center, including a meditation and yoga room.
o A New Youth/Teen Center where teens can hang out, and enjoy games and entertainment.
o Improvements to security
o Improved accessibility through a series of ramps and two new elevators
• Renovations to the Adult Men's and Adult Women's locker rooms.
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Renovation Q&A
What is the total cost of the project?
The project will cost approximately $23 million.
How are we paying for it?
Several years ago, we embarked on a Capital Campaign and succeeded in achieving our campaign goal of raising $14 million. The $23 million estimate in today’s dollars is due in part to design modifications made in response to our neighbors’ needs as well as cost escalations. To bridge that gap, we are using three sources for funding: a renewed Capital Campaign effort, external financing, and funds earned through operations. We have completed significant value engineering and have looked to save money wherever possible on the project while still maintaining its integrity.
What are we doing to ensure safety around the building site and the campus in general during the renovations?
Extensive background checks have been done on all construction workers and they are all union employees. Workmen
within the building will all display Photo ID contractor badges.
Will the entrances to the building change?
The main entrance is at the upper level of the JCC, accessible from level 3 of the garage. This entrance is open during all JCC operating hours. The lower entrance (formerly the main lobby) will be reserved for theater and special events. The Early Childhood entrance (at the back of the building) is open Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 6:30pm and is specifically for Early Childhood users.
Are hours remaining the same?
JCC MetroWest hours have recently expanded during the weekend. We are now open from 1:00pm to 7:00pm on Saturday, and 7:00am to 7:00pm on Sunday.
Is there anything being done to our facility in Whippany?
The Whippany fitness center has new strength equipment, additional cardio machines, and has opened a Personal Training Mezzanine dedicated to expanding personal training options. In addition, the fitness center has recently been repainted and new carpeting will be installed in February.
Who is doing the construction work?
The general contractor is Damon G. Douglas. The architects are The Biber Partnership.
How will we communicate with members about the renovation and expansion?
Members will view outdoor signage and receive flyers distributed by the security guard and throughout the building.
They will also receive newsletters, e-mail, and mail from us. There is a Grow JCC Hotline at 973-530-3424 and email at Growjcc@jccmetrowest.org.
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