MEEKER I The White River Electric Association would like to thank its members for their patience and support as the headquarters remodel project continues. The remodel is necessary to repair damage caused by a broken pipe that flooded the office building on Jan. 1, 2015.
Last year on New Year’s Day, management discovered four to six inches of standing water throughout areas of the main office. Following cleanup, the WREA began to assess the damage and the future of the building.
While the building was deemed structurally sound, the damage warranted a comprehensive remodel.
WREA has utilized the current office space as its headquarters since the 1960s. Specific areas of the original structure have been updated throughout the years with the recent addition in 2007 of the boardroom and office on the second floor.
With the help of an architect and input from all of the WREA employees, plans to reconfigure the business office began last fall. Throughout this process, WREA has maintained the goal of creating a headquarters that members and the community can utilize and be proud of for years to come, including an update to Kilowatt Korner.
Because of its age, the building required structural analysis, asbestos testing and architectural planning. Contractor review and selection is in its final stages.
The relocation of staff, asbestos abatement and internal demolition is nearly complete, and full construction is expected to begin in February. The project is estimated to take six months.
WREA General Manager Alan Michalewicz says he has always been impressed with WREA’s “whatever it takes to get the job done” attitude.
“The employees and members have been amazing,” he said. “Everyone jumped in to help after the flood and during the planning process.
“The employees have been moved around, inconvenienced and lived with the water damage since the day of the flood, but everyone has been great.” Michalewicz said.
WREA Board President Bill Jordan said, “The staff and board worked hard to make sure this was a necessary project. We wanted to ensure that we were in a financial position to take it on and do it right. This is an investment in our future.
“Construction projects take time and patience,” Jordan said. “The WREA will work to keep its members updated on the project and appreciates everyone’s cooperation. Most importantly, WREA looks forward to hosting an open house later this year to welcome the membership to their remodeled headquarters.”
For the duration of the construction, the business office will be located at 668 Market St. (on the corner of 7th and Market Street), across from the Meeker Chamber of Commerce. The WREA encourages all members to use the 7th Street door and parking area.
Please call WREA with any comments or questions about the remodel, Michalewicz said.
