By 1808Delaware
A longtime City of Powell service building is set for a practical upgrade, as construction prepares to begin on renovations to the Lechler Building at 453 Murphy Parkway.
The project will modernize the city’s existing public service garage facility, improving both the structure itself and its usefulness for day-to-day operations. While not a high-profile public building, the Lechler Building plays a behind-the-scenes role in keeping city services moving, including the storage of snow plows and other public service equipment.
More Room, Better Use
The project includes renovation of the existing 4,051-square-foot building, along with construction of a 786-square-foot addition. Planned work includes new exterior siding, a new roof, mechanical and electrical improvements, site upgrades, and construction of a dumpster enclosure. Once completed, the building will continue to be used for storage, but in a more focused way. The facility currently houses both snow plows and city files. Under the renovation plan, file storage will be removed, allowing the building to be dedicated exclusively to public service operations and equipment storage.
For a growing community, that kind of shift matters. Public works facilities often determine how efficiently a city can respond to winter weather, maintain streets, support parks, and manage daily operations that residents may only notice when something goes wrong.
A Future Trail Connection
The Lechler Building site is also expected to play a role in Powell’s future trail network. City officials note that the property will serve as the future home of a trail connection linking Liberty Park to Murphy Parkway. That trail work, however, is not included in the current building renovation project. Instead, it will be handled later as part of the future S. Liberty Road CSX crossing project.
That means the current work is focused squarely on the building and service site, while still positioning the area for a future mobility improvement.
Contract Awarded
Powell City Council recently awarded the construction contract to 2K General Company following a competitive public bidding process. SSOE and SHYFT Design are serving as the city’s owner’s representative and architectural team for the project, helping guide design, coordination, and construction oversight. A preconstruction meeting was held May 18 with city staff, the contractor, architects, engineers, and consultants. The meeting covered project coordination, construction procedures, communication protocols, scheduling, and site logistics.
Work To Begin Soon
Construction activities are expected to begin on or shortly after May 27. The project is expected to take about six months to complete, giving Powell an upgraded public service garage facility before the end of the year if the schedule holds.
When finished, the renovated Lechler Building will not change the city skyline or create a new public gathering place. Its value will be more utilitarian than ceremonial: a stronger, cleaner, more efficient home for the equipment Powell relies on to keep local services running.
