Community House Rebuild
The Sanibel Community House, located at 2173 Periwinkle Way, has a long and storied history on the Island. It dates to 1927, when it opened its doors to the first Island residents. Mostly farmers and fishermen, the early residents needed a local gathering spot for government affairs and socializing. Today, 57 different organizations hold meetings and social events there, and as well as the many events that are open to the public, such as the Annual Sanibel Shell Show. Public events attract more than 50,000 visitors annually to the Community House property. Many non-profits rely on the Community House to stage fundraising and other activities. The Community House is itself a non-profit corporation and depends on donations, membership and user fees; it does not receive any public funding.
By 2015, the time had come to update the building for this and future generations. The existing Community House closed on May 7, 2016 and it will undergo renovations until it re-opens at the end of November, 2016. The renovation will restore and preserve the historic North Room, re-design and landscape the exterior, create a more functional open floor plan, and expand and update the kitchen, restrooms, lobby and storage areas. Electrical and plumbing will be redone, as well as the HVAC and communications systems. These renovations are necessary to bring the building up to current codes.
In December of 2015, the renovation plan received the go-ahead from the Historic Preservation Committee, required because the building is on the Local Register of Historic Sites and Structures. The North Room portion of the original structure will be preserved and repaired, particularly the deteriorating sections of the exterior, a row of original windows and the roof. The interior renovation will also see a new wooden floor installed.
May 9th marked the official groundbreaking for the six month reconstruction, restoration, renovation and expansion. Many business owners were present who have contributed to the $3,000,000 capital campaign, and the campaign has been well-supported by Sanibel Island residents and visitors who recognize the importance of the Community House, and its integral role in both the history and the future of Island life.
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