The Duluth City Council recently approved $7,275 for renovation to The Lodge at W.P. Jones Park, 3750 Pleasant Hill Road because the screened porch has become a maintenance expense for screen replacement due to rental use, weather and suspected vandalism.
On July 16, two young adults broke into the screened porch, slashing the screen panels, breaking the porch door, destroying patio furniture and damaging the rear glass panel door into the lodge. Early the next morning, Duluth staff discovered the damage and the two young adults passed out inside the screened porch. Damage to the building is estimated at $7,000 for replacement of furniture and the building door.
As a result, Duluth staff recommended enclosing the porch and expanding the security system. This will enable year round public use, increase the opportunity for revenue and improve the security of the facility.
The contract will go to Heard Home Improvements for $7,275 for the renovation of the Lodge not to exceed $9,366.25, which includes a 15 percent project contingency and the expense for installation of a security system. Cost to replace the furniture will be covered through insurance.
The Lodge opened in November 2012 and is the primary activity center for daily Active Adults and Duluth Fifty And Beyond activities as well as evening and weekend rental use. The screened porch located on the rear of the Lodge was originally built for use as an outdoor amenity.
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