WOODSTOCK – The Recreation Committee got the go-ahead from selectmen Tuesday to begin converting the town’s old fire station on Railroad Street into a community recreation and activity center.

Recreation Committee Chairman John Fitzmorris presented a breakdown of the costs, which would total approximately $24,000.

“This is only a rough estimate and it’s possible that it will be lower after we get exact quotes on some of the materials. The figures in our plan are only estimates because we’re waiting to hear from several companies with exact quotes on the heating system, chimney, plumbing, electric and septic,” said Fitzmorris, “When those figures are in, we will have a more accurate total.”

He presented the estimated costs for each phase as follows: second-floor underlayment, $2136.70; plumbing, $2,909; septic system, $1,725; electrical work, $3,000; heat, $5,500; windows, $3,594; doors, $1,200; roof, $852.82; kitchen, $1,400; and interior finishing, $2,000.

Fitzmorris said he expects the $5,500 for the heating phase may be cut in half after a specific figure arrives from the Woodstock Oil Co.

“Again, all these figures are only estimates, and the figure for the heating system of $5,500 is what we figure is a worst-case scenario. We really expect that probably can be cut in half to around $2,000,” he said.

He said $21,000 is available for the project at this time, but the project may have to be scaled down. He said ways to scale it down are still being studied by the committee.

After his presentation, selectmen praised the committee for the excellent work it’s doing on the planning. But Selectman Steve Bies registered concern with the price of the project.

“I appreciate the detail and the amount of work you’re putting in, but the costs you’re showing are much more than we figured. I thought we were looking at $10,000 and now we’re looking at more than twice that. So I’m wondering where the money will come from. I’m a little distressed by this,” Bies said.

Fitzmorris explained that it is hoped that the bottom line figure will be reduced significantly when all official bids are in. Also, the Recreation Committee and Sports Boosters are planning a capital fund-raising campaign. It also is expected that more private donations will be coming in as soon as people see that the project is actually under way.

He said his committee plans to begin the project right away, with repairs to the roof first on the list. It is hoped the building will be ready for use early in 2004.

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