Sunnidale Hall renos nearly completed
Renovations at the Sunnidale Community Centre are nearing completion, at long last. Workers recently installed new signage on the front of the building, most of the interior work is finished, and paving of the parking lot is underway according to long-time hall board volunteer, Mariane Buie. The new elevator is in place, and awaiting installation of dedicated phone and wi-fi lines. Then the only thing that remains to make the hall fully functional is a stove for the upgraded kitchen.
Clearview Township awarded an $890,000 contract to Dom Construction for renovations to make the hall compliant with accessibility legislation in March 2023. At that time, it was anticipated that the project would be ready for takeover by the hall board by September 15, 2023.
Buie says they have managed to host a couple of events, even before the renos are 100 per cent complete. The family of one local resident who died last August was intent on holding a celebration of her life at the Sunnidale Hall, so they waited until May 24 this year. “We had another celebration of life in June, and a Buck and Doe where we used only the upstairs,” Buie says, “but until we have a fully functioning kitchen, we can’t confirm any wedding bookings.”
The commercial grade stove, with six burners and a grill, was ordered in January and will hopefully arrive soon.
Buie says Sunnidale is the oldest of the Small Halls in Clearview. In a history published to celebrate the Hall’s 150th anniversary, back in 2006, it was noted that the location has been an important part of the community since the original log structure at Sunnidale Corners was erected in 1832. That building was replaced by a larger and more modern frame building in 1856. Over the years it served many purposes, including school, council chambers and dance hall before it was finally purchased by members of the community in 1920 and became the Sunnidale Community Centre.
Recent renovations include a new two-level entry with stairs and landings designed to meet Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS), a front canopy, an elevator, accessible washrooms on both levels, and kitchens reconfigured to meet FADS requirements.
Once Dom completes their work, the Hall Board will undertake a few projects which were not part of the original scope. “We want to hang new window coverings, put in a new ceiling with pot lights, and upgrade the tile in the existing upstairs washrooms to match what is installed in the new washrooms.” Buie says the renovated hall is beautiful, and she can’t wait to show it off when they are able to return to a full slate of rentals.
