2021-004 - VAN BUREN CHARTER TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

In 2019, the Van Buren Charter Township Board of Trustees engaged the services of Plante Moran Cresa (Owner’s Representative), Neumann/Smith Architects, Russel Design (Landscape) and EPIC-MRA (Phone Survey) to conduct a Community Center Feasibility Study. During the planning process, the community identified a desire for indoor recreation facilities that would provide year-round expanded programming for multi-generational community members. The team was engaged to assist the Board of Trustees and the Van Buren Charter Township Administration in determining the need and long-term financial viability for an expanded Community Center to serve its residents.
Based on a majority of the community survey responses and financial feasibility analysis, the existing Van Buren Charter Township site on Tyler Road would be the desired Community Center location. Site improvements should include additional parking to support the building expansion, site circulation improvements and separation from public safety and staff parking area at the south end of the site.
The Community Center Project will consist of additions and renovations to the existing southeast wing of the Van Buren Charter Township municipal facility. The building will remain open during construction and the site will serve community members for field sports and the splash pad to the south.
Based on the telephone survey results, the residents of Van Buren Charter Township rated their desire for certain Community Center program components. As a result of this feedback, the following recreational items received favorable responses:
• Multipurpose Gymnasium for Basketball/Volleyball/Pickle Ball with locker room support spaces
• Indoor elevated Walking/Jogging Track
• Fitness Area
• Community Meeting and Multi-Purpose Rooms
• Child Watch
• Concession Area
• Black Box Theater
Additional spaces being considered for this project include a large outdoor plaza for public gatherings and a new Community Center entry.