Pavilion level gets renovation

Cosmetic renovations for Savannah Rapids Pavilion's main level started Jan. 7 and will continue until April.

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"It's literally just a face-lift," said Sandy Boner, Columbia County's Community Centers Department manager. "We're not changing any structures."

Construction costs are estimated at $372,000. Most of the work will consist of painting, carpeting and the installation of moving partitions. Bathroom and lobby renovations will take up the remainder of construction funds.

Additional furnishings will cost about $88,000 and decorate the lobby and the primary meeting room.

The changes were approved by voters as part of the most recent sales tax referendum, and Boner said she has waited many years for the money.

As of now, work will be conducted on only the interior of the main level rental room. There is, however, additional funding because bids for the renovation work came under budget, said Chip Mobley, the county's project manager of facility services.

Though it's not officially approved, Mobley said officials might eventually approve additional work on the bottom floor of the facility at 3300 Evans to Locks Road.

Boner didn't want to divulge any details about the design because she wants the changes to be a surprise to clients. She said she will send invitations as opening day nears.

"I don't want them to know in their minds already what they're to expect," she said.

Boner said she anticipates the work will be finished in time for Masters Week.

"We look forward to having our grand reopening," she said, "and (seeing) the pleasant surprises on people's faces."