Hello makers!
Last night we had an expansion meeting. For those they could not attend we wanted to post a summary of what is done and what is coming up.
Completed:
We have finalized the plans that include the new woodshop, new automotive, new laser area, new animatronics and a new “clean” room for finishing, drying and resin curing.
These designs also include the results of an ADA audit to help us bring better accessibility to all our members.
In progress:
New galley - we are waiting on a plumber to fix and adjust pipes for the sink. It should be fully operational shortly.
Front lobby - the floors will be clear to walk on by Thursday. We can then move the shelves back out and begin installing the arcade carpet on the arcade room. When the arcade moves digital media can take over the old lobby and current animatronics and animatronics can move to the current digital media area.
The plumber will also be installing the toilets in the front bathroom for us.
Upcoming:
Vendor walk through - we have walked one vendor through and will be walking a second through shortly. They will both be responding to the official RFP. We are still working on scheduling the 3rd vendor.
Pending vendor selection:
New front hallway/animatronics/lathe room - the first phase of construction will include closing the current old galley pass through and building the wall and doorway that is currently going through digital media. This new hallway will have windows to see into both the woodshop and animatronics.
Automotive - wall construction, vent install and move. The new walls have sound proofing to help reduce noise for ceramics, glass and jewelry.
Woodshop - the shop is currently working on a plan to remain operational during the construction. The walls facing the classroom areas will have sound proofing insulation added.
Lasers - the lasers will move when the room is built. They will use the existing wall penetration from old ceramics to vent the lasers
Metal shop - when the lasers move the metal shop will expand into their space.
Clean room - we are developing a plan for management of this space
Common tables - the area that is currently automotive and old machine shop will be filled with shares work tables and rack storage
Timing:
We are hoping to have bids in by April 1st. So the board can vote on a vendor at the April board meeting. The actual construction timeline will be dependent on the vendor selection.
I would also like to say a huge thanks to everyone who helped get us to this point. It’s been a long journey, but I think because of all of your contributions it will be a fantastic destination when we get there! You all deserve a round of applause!
Thanks, James