Needham, MA – McGinley Kalsow & Associates was engaged by the Town of Needham to undertake an assessment of physical conditions, conduct a space needs study and develop four alternatives with comparative cost estimates.
The architect contacted Harry R. Feldman, Inc. to perform a 3D Laser Scan of two facades as well as the interior (attic) space that was being considered for renovation. The Feldman team performed the laser scanning, drafting of 2D cad plans and a reflected ceiling plan for the architect to conduct their analysis and design.
The results were presented in 2008, and after extensive public review and discussion, the Board of Selectmen chose the alternative that upgraded the structure, restored the auditorium, and constructed a new addition linked to the rear of the historic building to provide significant additional space. followed by . Contract documents were completed in November 2009. Construction of the $12 million project, full funding by the town, is slated to begin in March, 2010.
The goal is to rededicate the restored Town Hall as part of the Tri-Centennial Celebration of the Town’s incorporation in 2011.
G & R Construction Company, Inc. of Quincy will be the General contractor for the project.
Needham Town Hall was originally built and dedicated on December 22, 1903. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places along with the surrounding town common as the Needham Town Hall Historic District. The building retains a significant amount of original historic fabric; however, in 1952 the second floor auditorium was converted into standard office interior space to accommodate post WWII growth. By 2007 the historic building was in need of significant repairs, code and accessibility deficient, and unable to meet severe demands for additional office space. The renovation will provide the town of Needham with a restored historic Town Hall, an auditorium with its original splendor to provide space for community activities, and increased office space to serve its citizens.