Sidewalk reconstruction project kicks off at Joyce Raye Patterson Senior Center
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Local seniors will see new and improved pathways constructed for a popular activity center in Downtown St. Joseph.
Sidewalk and entryway reconstruction work for the Joyce Raye Patterson 50+ Activity Center officially kicked off Thursday at 100 S. 10th St., a $31,000 project to address deteriorating concrete, safety and improve ADA access for pedestrians and customers.
Improvements will be carried out on the east side/front entrance and along most of the 10th Street sidewalk, including reconstruction of the ramp at 10th and Edmond streets and guardrail improvements.
"For those people who park in the front or use the bus, we hope it's going to be a big improvement and make the building look better too," facility manager Julie Noel said. “We have areas where the rebar is rusting through and it makes people wonder how safe it is."
She said poor sidewalk conditions have caused problems for some customers, especially those who use walkers, canes or wheelchairs for assistance.
The 22,000-square-foot facility offers a variety of recreational and fitness-related activities for local citizens age 50 and older, averaging more than 5,500 visits each month.
"They struggle on the sidewalk because it's been pretty beat up. It's more gravel in some places, especially the entrance areas," she said. "We're excited to get those fixed, that way people will have an easier time."
The project is expected to be complete in short order, likely within a week according to St. Josephs Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Atkins.
Street parking out front will be impacted as construction unfolds. The entrance will be blocked on Monday, meaning users will have to park below the building and use the stairs or elevator to come up to the main level.
Built in 1978, the Joyce Raye Patterson 50+ Activity Center has seen a number of renovations carried out or planned in recent years, including $300,000 for significant restroom renovations, kitchen equipment replacements and paint work.
A new elevator system is also in line to be installed this winter.
