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Building History

Recent study determines that the structure is sound!

Summer 2003

That's the news we recently received from an engineering firm hired to complete a comprehensive survey on the structural status of the Playhouse building.

In early June, the principal of Island Structures Engineering, Bill Schlumpf, presented the findings of his 5-month study to the East Hampton Town Board and members of the community. The scope of the survey was far-reaching, much more exhaustive than previous studies.

In essence, the survey built on previous studies, which said that the columns, trusses, girders, foundation and perimeter gallery roof were all in sound condition. Mr. Schlumpf did point out that some aspects of the overall structure need to be repaired or replaced, but as a whole, the building is worth saving. Major points noted by Mr. Schlumpf include:

- Foundation is generally deeper and more substantial than anticipated.
- Two structural columns require reinforcing.
- Main trusses and truss girders are in generally good condition.
- Roof frames are adequate for new code laws.
- Horizontal struts in the roof have been holding water and require replacement.
- Steel framing, wood subpurlins and planking and roofing of the perimeter gallery roof are in sound condition.

While not providing a specific price tag for rehabilitating vs. demolition and reconstruction of a like building, Mr. Schlumpf did estimate that rehabilitation would be equal to, or potentially lower in final cost than reconstruction. He also pointed out that historic preservation grants will lower the cost of rehabilitating the structure even more (the Town has already been awarded a $350,000 grant by New York State for rehabilitation of the Playhouse).

In response to the findings, all 5 Town Board members are receptive to moving forward toward a first phase of restoring the building with a Human Services Center, which would include child and senior day care and a senior nutrition center, in one part of the structure. As proof of this, the Board recently commissioned Island Structures Engineering to complete a plan for the first phase. Mr. Schlumpf indicated that the first phase of the project could be completed within two years. Town Board members have said that they would commit $5 million toward this phase. Additional facilities, including a gymnasium, pool and theater, would be completed in future phases with grants and funds raised by the community.

Now more than ever, it is time for us to rally together to make the dream of a community center a reality!

Montauk Playhouse Community Center Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 1612 ~ Montauk, New York 11954
Tel./Fax: 631.668.1124 ~ admin@montaukplayhouse.org