OWASCO - The historic Emerson Park Pavilion should get some touch-ups this year.
A recent architectural assessment helped prioritize work for the next five years. The 2008 Cayuga County budget includes $67,000 for Parks and Trails Director Gary Duckett to get started.
Built in 1912, the pavilion has been a frequent destination for public and private events. While still handsome from a distance, a closer look reveals dozens of small jobs that will maintain its integrity, Duckett said.
“The building certainly hasn't been neglected,” he said, naming flooring, roof and kitchen upgrades and recent improvements. “But, it hasn't been kept in its original state either.
“It's been a little while since we spent this kind of money on the building,” Duckett said.
This year's list includes replacing or refurbishing columns, adding a handicap ramp to the south side and replacing warped patio concrete. The items total about $70,000, according to architect estimates.
“That's about the money that we generate in rentals, so I'm suggesting we take that money and invest it back in the building for the next five years,” Duckett said. “I think if we do that to the building for a few years, we can bring it closer to its original splendor.”
Much of the work will require state Historic Preservation Office approval in addition to the county Legislature OK, making May the earliest some of it will begin. Smaller projects can be tackled in between weekends, so reservations won't be affected.
A five-year capital plan for the county that legislators will consider this month includes about $75,000 worth of pavilion work in each of the next four years. Future projects could include refinishing the dining room floor, restoring a brick chimney and changing light fixtures.
“I would like to see more people come to the park and the more beautiful we make it the more people would want to come here,” Duckett said.
Staff writer Shane Liebler can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 248 or shane.liebler@lee.net
Built in 1912, the pavilion has been a frequent destination for public and private events. While still handsome from a distance, a closer look reveals dozens of small jobs that will maintain its integrity, Duckett said.
“The building certainly hasn't been neglected,” he said, naming flooring, roof and kitchen upgrades and recent improvements. “But, it hasn't been kept in its original state either.
“It's been a little while since we spent this kind of money on the building,” Duckett said.
This year's list includes replacing or refurbishing columns, adding a handicap ramp to the south side and replacing warped patio concrete. The items total about $70,000, according to architect estimates.
“That's about the money that we generate in rentals, so I'm suggesting we take that money and invest it back in the building for the next five years,” Duckett said. “I think if we do that to the building for a few years, we can bring it closer to its original splendor.”
Much of the work will require state Historic Preservation Office approval in addition to the county Legislature OK, making May the earliest some of it will begin. Smaller projects can be tackled in between weekends, so reservations won't be affected.
A five-year capital plan for the county that legislators will consider this month includes about $75,000 worth of pavilion work in each of the next four years. Future projects could include refinishing the dining room floor, restoring a brick chimney and changing light fixtures.
“I would like to see more people come to the park and the more beautiful we make it the more people would want to come here,” Duckett said.
Staff writer Shane Liebler can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 248 or shane.liebler@lee.net
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