A Gwinnett County facility in Buford that has served as a base for the provision of various health and human services since 1997 will undergo an extensive renovation and expansion. Commissioners approved a $1.76 million construction contract last Tuesday with Beatty Construction Inc. The architect is Lord Aeck Sargent.
The 24,415-square-foot Buford Human Services Center at 2755 Sawnee Avenue currently houses public health, dental and mental health agencies along with senior services, various support groups and the federal Women, Infants and Children services program. Together, they provide more than 3,000 hours of programming a year aimed at preventing homelessness, helping with energy bills, assisting first-time homebuyers and offering nutrition programs, job interview preparation and tax help.
The work includes replacing the HVAC system, ceilings, lighting and roof; improvements to site drainage and pedestrian circulation; and interior reconfiguration to create additional community meeting areas. The 2014 SPLOST program will fund renovations to the portion of the building that houses the Buford Senior Center. The improvements will included an expanded dining room and upgraded serving area that serves about 10,000 meals to seniors each year. There will also be a new drop-off area, covered patio, activities room, personal care room, expanded lounge area, renovated restrooms and new interior finishes and furnishings.
The total contract is funded 62 percent from the Capital Project Fund with the remainder coming from SPLOST.
