For more than a year now The J’s facilities committee has been guiding and prioritizing the major decisions that keep our beloved building in good form.
“We’ve dedicated the past five years to making The J financially healthy,” says Executive Director Brooke Bowles. “That along with a committee of experts dedicated to helping staff keep The J looking and operating at its best makes for a winning combination.”
Robert Scott, The J’s new director of facilities who started last month, says the committee and its plans will only help him continue to get a handle on daily operations while shepherding a variety of major projects. “The structure we have is allowing us to tackle these crucial projects in the most efficient way.”
Here’s what’s going on:
Indoor pool
This week the pool was finally back up to temperature after an extended period of technical issues that started with a night of severe weather in December. While getting the pool back on track over the past 10 weeks proved to be a significant hurdle, we also realized that a full mechanical upgrade was necessary to provide a top-notch experience. So we spent $104,000 on a complete mechanical upgrade to replace the filtration, pump, and heating systems — plus long-term maintenance plans. While the heater was recently installed, the other new equipment is on order.
Fitness Floor
Meanwhile on the Fitness Floor, we’ve ordered eight new treadmills and a new elliptical machine — all part of a long-term strategy that involves replacing additional cardio equipment in 2025 and in 2026. The new treadmills will include different console options that should satisfy members who want a simple workout and members who want a more interactive experience.
Roofing
A 40-thousand-square-foot roof project is in the works to replace and recover the lobby, Pizitz Auditorium, Hess Library, the Wood Gym, and the Fitness Center.
HVAC
We just submitted our application for the third phase of our HVAC overhaul through the GoodUse grant, which will address the needs of the Cohn ECLC. Phase I (September 2023) saw the replacement of four units that serve group fitness studios, Bo’s Kosher Cafe and the locker rooms, and the senior lounge. Phase II (January 2024) included replacing the units that serve the Wood Gym and Fitness Floor.
Courtyard
Final designs for transforming the courtyard and library into a newly usable space are under review with guidance from structural engineers before we put the project out for bid.
Audio
Pizitz Auditorium will see a full sound upgrade that includes speakers, a mixing board, and microphones adequate for large and small productions. The new system will see its first major use by the Youth Theater production of Annie JR. in April.
Restrooms
Management is currently looking at possible designs for planned renovations to the main restrooms across from the Senior Lounge, and those on the Fitness Floor.
Security
Johnny Braxton is now our dedicated full-time security officer here at The J, just one of many security upgrades we’ve undertaken in the past year — especially following the events of October 7. Don’t hesitate to greet “JB” and even introduce yourself when you see him patrolling the area. He’ll be happy to chat with you.