Human services center will be renovated

Gwinnett commissioners approved a $1.76 million construction contract with Beatty Construction Inc. to renovate and expand the Buford Human Services Center, 2755 Sawnee Ave. The architect is Lord Aeck Sargent.

The 24,415-square-foot building currently houses public health, dental and mental health agencies along with senior services, various support groups and the federal Women, Infants and Children services program.

The work includes replacing the HVAC system, ceilings, lighting and roof; improvements to site drainage and pedestrian circulation; and interior reconfiguration to create additional community meeting areas. 2014 SPLOST will fund renovations to the senior center portion of the building. The improvements will include an expanded dining room and upgraded serving area that serves about 10,000 meals to seniors each year.

There will also be a new dropoff area, covered patio, activities room, personal care room, expanded lounge area, renovated restrooms and new interior finishes and furnishings.

The total contract is funded 62 percent from the Capital Project Fund with the remainder coming from SPLOST.

City to adopt park master plan update

The Duluth City Council met recently to review an update of the city’s Park Master Plan. In April, the city awarded the project to the Foresite Group.

The group held public meetings, conducted a community survey and visited all the sites to inventory existing park facilities and amenities. Information was gathered on park usability, community needs, program trends and future park and program development opportunities.

The resulting report includes suggestions for existing park improvements as well as the need for infill parks and pocket parks in smaller locations.m.

The council provided additional recommendations to be incorporated into the final plan before considering adoption at the next city council meeting Dec. 12.