Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/105435
Construction Update By William Cohen, Vice President Operations Gateway Project gets under way I f you're like me, you've been walking through the WAC Lobby these past few weeks with your head angled toward the ceiling. It's been fun to watch the Gateway Project begin, and there's plenty more excitement yet to come. Of course, as with any construction project, there will be a few bumps along the way. As they arise, we'll work to offset the inevitable inconveniences to members. Already, we have had at least one pleasant surprise. During demolition, crews uncovered some of the lobby's original crown molding above and near the high-rise elevators. Finding it intact was a thrill, and we were still determining if it could be saved or reused as of press time. Another lobby demolition highlight involved removal of the old bell desk and additional sections of ceiling. Along the way, we discovered some inefficiencies in the heating and cooling system. We'll remedy those with improvements that'll enhance the system's capacity and operation. As the project continues, work zones will shift and the temporary walls that offset active construction areas will move. During this time, we invite you to get reacquainted with areas of the Club you may not have visited of late. If you enjoy meeting friends in the lobby, you might consider checking out the Johnson Lobby Lounge instead. When it's not hosting a private event, it's a great place to meet or hang out. So are the Sports Café (with free Wi-Fi), Torchy's and Hagerty's. We expect the project to conclude by early May. As of mid-January, when this article went to press, changes in the project scope were continuing to take shape. As February continues, you should start to see some of the enhanced lighting system installed. By early March, we Project foreman Paul Peterson (left ) anticipate pouring the consults with interior designer Margaret new terrazzo floors. We'll Thomas and general contractor Richard need to divert members Adatto on the first day of construction. and guests to the low-rise elevators for a few days. During that time, you can transfer to the high-rise elevators on the second and third floors. The Gateway Project will strengthen the lobby's roles of main entry and social gathering hub while balancing modern upgrades with historical considerations. The lead project team of Richard Adatto and Margaret Thomas, both Club members, has a proven track record with WAC projects, and we look forward to unveiling their latest work in the weeks ahead. William Cohen is Vice President Operations. Reach him at wcohen@wac.net. Track The projecT During the WAC Lobby remodel, members will be informed about progress and plans through wac.net and via Club signage. The Club will strive to minimize inconvenience while maximizing improvements to the lobby. We anticipate needing to divert members and guests to the low-rise elevators for a few days. During that time, you can transfer to the highrise elevators on the second and third floors. 20 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | FEBRUARY 2013 BarBara KInney Looking up—and forward—from the ground floor