With a focus on safety, comfort and quality care, The Barry Robinson Center (BRC) recently wrapped up several significant renovation projects – all designed to better serve its military-connected residents and their families.
Reduced census during the pandemic enabled the center to accelerate some of the renovations. Several projects in the dorms and school building are complete. Other projects are underway or will be starting soon. The investment for these capital improvements totals about $4.5 million
“To help manage the risk of Covid and keep our campus community safe, we took two dozen resident beds out of service in March 2020,” explained CEO Rob McCartney, MSW. “This move also gave us the opportunity to address some much-needed renovation projects. With most of the building work complete, we’re ready to open these beds and serve more youth.”
Although the pandemic remains a serious concern, the measures BRC took to control its impact show a positive return on several levels.
“Without a doubt, the pandemic has been and continues to be very a difficult time for all of us,” McCartney said. “I’m so proud of how well our employees stepped up to care for our residents and for each other. Our ability to provide high quality treatment during the pandemic and these renovations has been amazing.”
One of the more complicated projects involved work in BRC’s six dormitories, which date to 1986. Although these buildings have been updated before, staff identified several essential projects that required about 18 months to finish. Workers renovated one building at a time, to limit disruptions for residents and staff.
Replaced old tile flooring with vinyl planks
Replaced old windows with new mar-resistant polycarbonate panel to meet psychiatric standards
Completely renovated 36 restrooms
Over the coming months, multipurpose rooms in the dorms will also be updated with fresh paint, furnishings, and other amenities.
Another focus area was BRC’s school, one of three original buildings opened in 1933. Completed projects in the building include:
Replaced windows with unbreakable glass windows
Installed Smartboards in all classrooms
Installed new carpet throughout building
Installed new vinyl restroom flooring and partitions
Painted interior spaces
Replaced emergency exit stairs
“BRC has a long legacy of helping children and families since 1933. Investing in capital improvements enables us to continue and expand our mission,” McCartney said. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve military families and others in our local community.”