by Monica Chamness
Staff Writer
If all goes according to plan, renovations to Historic Snyder Memorial could be underway by May.
“If we do everything we would conceivably want to do, we’ll spend about $1.4 million,” said Bobi McGinnis, executive director of the St. Johns River City Band. “We had a feasibility study done before we bought the house that back then [two years ago] showed that there would probably be about $800,000 worth of renovations to be done and that number has gone up.”
To date, $800,000 has been raised. Neptune Beach mayor and River City Band president Dick Brown is leading the campaign to raise the rest of the money.
The project has been divided into two phases. The initial phase consists of modifications to the ground floor. Previously serving as a pulpit, the auditorium’s stage will be brought forward 10 feet to allow for more backstage space.
Pews will be double-cushioned and the stained glass windows will be refurbished. The backwall will be fitted with acoustic absorption panels for better sound. A balcony will be added to the rear to accommodate lighting equipment or serve as a catwalk.
Once the acoustics, lighting and layout specifications are complete, 250 people will be able comfortably enjoy a 20-piece brass band. The auditorium will be named for local art patrons Ira and Nancy Koger.
A large reception area will be renovated with either new tile or hardwood flooring. The wall dividing the large room from the back offices will be razed and modular panels will be installed to allow more exhibit space for visual artists. This area will be named after Jacksonville Jaguars owners Wayne and Delores Weaver. Elevators will also be added.
The basement will be sealed and climate-control equipment will be installed so the area can be used as storage for equipment. Bathrooms will nearly double in number and will be handicapped accessible. Kitchen facilities will be modernized for caterers but not enlarged. And there will be some new wiring installed.
“The electrical engineer said, ‘This building is a history in electricity. Every form that has ever been is here,’” said McGinnis.
The second phase includes taking 3,000 to 4,000 square feet and making it into space for private music or voice lessons. Administrative offices will fill the remaining space on the top floor. Sprinkler systems will be installed on each floor for fire safety. Exterior work includes a replica of the church’s original steeple.
Because of delays in obtaining permits and finalizing architectural and engineering plans, work will not likely begin until May.
If all goes well, the band plans to move into its new home by summer 2003. And physical renovations aren’t the only changes planned. A new name, a different format and the addition of jazz and bluegrass music is being considered.