Casino Renovation Update: Phase 1 Complete, Phase 2 Ahead

 

After four months of permitting and contractor coordination, the Casino renovation is officially underway—and Phase 1 is now complete. The work is being led by the Capital Improvement Committee, co-chaired by Past Presidents Dan Martin and John O’Brien, with President Chris Forstbauer, Vice President Lindsay Calabrese, Treasurer Brian Puccinelli, and Director Susan Broshek.

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Phase 1 focused on removing failing materials and rebuilding the structure beneath the kitchen and utility areas. Crews began by demolishing the old kitchen, closet, and utility room, including removal of the hot water heater. From there, the existing flooring was taken up to expose the joists, main beam, and support columns—revealing multiple layers of flooring that appear to date back to the building’s original 1934 construction.

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During demolition, significant deterioration was discovered along the waterside sill, where joists were severely rotted and required immediate shoring. The rusted bases of the existing support columns (lally columns) and the main beam were removed and replaced with new galvanized columns set on reinforced concrete footings. With the structure stabilized, new joists and subflooring were installed, damaged wall sections were replaced with new sheetrock, and the closet and utility room were rebuilt with three new doors. Phase 1 concluded with installation of new vinyl flooring.

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What’s Next (Phase 2): Phase 2 will include a new kitchen, interior painting, and shiplap installed around the perimeter to replace the wainscot that was removed during Phase 1.

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How You Can Help: If you haven’t renewed your HBCA membership this year (or in a while), please consider joining. Donations to the Capital Improvement Fund directly support Phase 2 and future facility improvements. Thank you for helping keep the Casino strong for years to come.

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—  Capital Improvement Committee