If you’ve driven pass the southwest corner of Wales and Fulton Road recently, you’ve definitely noticed a BIG difference in the area. That BIG difference is an emerging concrete block and steel structure otherwise known as the Jackson YMCA.

After waiting for what seems like years, the state-of-the-art YMCA is becoming a reality. Back in the Harris/Day March e-letter, we introduced the 50,000 square foot, multi-purpose, community facility whose amenities include a wellness center, gymnasium, aerobics/exercise studios and a natatorium that will house a 6-lane pool with diving area. The pool will be the site of practices and meets for the JHS swim team, as well as open for community use.

This month we’re able to show you actual construction photos that illustrate the progress that’s taken place so far. To the untrained eye, it appears to be an interesting mix of building volumes (size and shape) and building materials (concrete block and steel). The design shape and construction materials for each building area actually reflect the specific activity and function that each space will ultimately house. Construction components completed to date include:

 - The gymnasium and aerobics studio are enclosed (walls and roof), and mechanical and electrical systems are currently being installed.
 - The natatorium pool tank and whirlpool unit have been formed and concrete placed. The large, preformed concrete structural tees for the roof were installed just last week.
 - Steel framing and metal deck for the wellness center, main entrance lobby, and public meeting rooms have been erected and the front building elevation is now beginning to look like our design concept rendering.

“The Jackson board and community members are very excited about the progress that’s taken place,” said Tim Shetzer, CEO of the Central Stark County YMCA. He added, “This is going to be a dynamic facility that the students and community can utilize and be proud to have in the center of their township and adjacent to the high school.”

Even Mother Nature is cooperating. “The construction schedule has benefitted a lot thanks to the mild winter weather we’ve had so far,” said Jeff Day, H/D’s president. Occupancy is slated for Fall 2006.

Forecast 2006 – Favorable For Growth

The job forecast is looking favorable for Harris/Day so far in 2006. “We’re very optimistic with the number of new, smaller projects, many of which are from the private business sector,” said Jeff Day. “Clients/Owners are looking ahead and planning for small to medium growth, which translates into spring/summer building projects.”

New clients/projects include:

 - First National Bank - new branch office  – Kidron
 - The Bekaert Corporation - new manufacturing addition [Arch/CM package] – Orrville
 - DeVille Developments - various retail facilities both locally and regionally
 - R G Drage Career Center - new Building & Trades vocational education program building
 - ASC Industries - new manufacturing/warehouse addition – Green
 - Plain Township Fire Department - branch fire department improvements study  and/or expansion.