Rec center demolition paves way for new school gym
The first step of a new gymnasium in Scotia is complete following last week’s demolition of the former Pacific Lumber Company recreation building.
Subcontractor Wahlund Construction began demolition on Monday, Nov. 22 under the watchful eye of contractor Dinsmore Construction. Scotia residents and others watched as the building, built in 1959, was torn down. Some of the redwood beams used in the original construction were salvaged during the demolition process.
“I keep using the term bittersweet when it comes to this project,” said Scotia Union School District Superintendent and principal Amy Gossien. “There is really no better term to describe the feeling of watching the rec enter go down in preparation for our new gymnasium.”
The recreation center was transferred to the school when the Pacific Lumber Company went into bankruptcy and the building was closed soon thereafter because of state guidelines and the school’s insurance carrier. It has been sitting vacant for more than 10 years.
There have been multiple attempts to secure state funding to rehabilitate the building over the years. A cost-benefit analysis was done, future option plans were drawn by architectural firm Sierra Design Group and after those plans were submitted to the state, the determination was made to demolish rather than renovate.
However, Gossien said the decision was not made lightly. “It was a long, emotional road going from a plan to rehabilitate the rec center to replacing it with a new building,” she said.
Construction of the new building, which will be located on the same site as the rec enter near the school, is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2022. It will be smaller than the old building and will include a full-size basketball court, two team rooms, restrooms, a stage, lobby, and snack bar.
Gossien said some of the finishes in the new building will use some of the salvaged wood from the old recreation center.
“We are happy that we will have a safe new building moving into the future that has remnants of the old building and pays homage to the past,” she said, adding that this is a proud moment for the school and community. “It has taken the traits for success that we teach our students: working with a great team, persevering, and thinking outside the box.”
Completion of the $7.5 million project is scheduled for the fall of 2023.