After hours of public discussion during multiple meetings, spanning multiple years, the Manhattan City Commission discussed the final design details Tuesday for improvements to Peace Memorial Auditorium.
The original plan in 2012 was to relocate the aging Parks and Rec offices from City Park to the auditorium and remove the stage in order to make room for the basketball court. The plan was quickly tabled, however, as local veterans and concerned residents voiced their displeasure with the City changing what was originally built as a “living” war memorial.
The latest design was drastically scaled back and Commissioner, Karen McCulloh was confident Tuesday that the Auditorium is in good hands.
We have to do it right and we want to think about the future,” McCulloh, “This is going to be I think a long-term activity that we’re going to work on with volunteers and staff and City and Commissioners.”
Current plans include HVAC installation, electrical upgrades and an ADA lift for stage access. The Commission will also consider a separate project to install an interactive kiosk in the foyer at City Hall listing local war memorials.
Parks and Recreation Offices
Also Tuesday, Bruce McMillan Architects presented a design update for the 7,500 sq. ft. addition to City Hall. The expansion will house the Parks and Rec. Department and Manhattan’s legal team.
McMillan Architects will take bids on December 9th and will return to the Commission on the 16th for approval.
