COLUMBUS, OH The Lake Hope Nature Center Renovation Team from Lake Hope State Park in Vinton County has received the “Team Of The Year Award” from Ohio State Parks for planning and implementing a creative remodeling effort at the park’s popular nature center.
Team members are park employees Rick Gillilan, Brian Hubbard, Tom Mace, Mike Reffett, Dave Sapienza and Bob Sowers.
A routine inspection in 2004 identified electrical problems in the 1950s era building. Renovation began in November of that year to correct those electrical problems and, at the same time, renovate the building’s interior in keeping with its woodland setting.
The building’s original beam trusses were exposed and rough-cut poplar was installed on the walls and between ceiling trusses. Whenever possible, improvements included the use of scrap material as a cost-saving mechanism. In the end, the entire project cost $1,545 with $235 of that amount earmarked for the electrical improvements. On January 7, 2005, the newly remodeled nature center opened for business.
“More than 52,000 people visit the Lake Hope Nature Center each year,” said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. “These improvements will enhance their experiences.”
There are 74 Ohio State Parks encompassing nine resort lodges, more than 500 cottages and 56 family campgrounds with more than 9,000 sites.
Employees from Lake Hope State Park recently received the Ohio State Parks Team Award. Left to right are pictured: ODNR Deputy Director Scott Zody, ODNR Director Sam Speck, parks employees Mike Reffett, Rick Gillilan, Tom Mace and Dave Sapienza; and state parks chief Dan West.