“Our HVAC systems were about 25, pushing 30 years old, as well as the roof, and those are both end-of-life, really, for those kinds of systems.”
Patrick Placzkowski is CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids. He says the $1.2 million energy grant from the state is paying for a new roof, modern HVAC system, energy-saving solar shades and all-new LED lighting at the Steil Club facility.
“This just really helps strengthen this building, kind of sets us up to remain here in this northwest neighborhood where we’re really needed by the families and the communities that we serve and then it also will save us about $9,000 a year on energy costs overall.”
Placzkowski says the organization felt relief after funding for out-of-school programs was recently secured in the state budget, something they rely heavily on.
“So, it’s really important stuff and I think, luckily, the legislature realized that - that we’re an essential service for working families.”
Placzkowski says all building improvements should be finalized by the end of the year, while a $4.6 million renovation of the Seidman Club should wrap up by spring.
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