Joseph J. Duffy (JJ Duffy) has been named the general contractor by the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago for two projects within the Franciscan Village in Lemont, IL: the construction of an office building addition and the conversion of assisted care living units.
In the first of the two assignments, JJ Duffy is constructing a two story office building expansion that will double the size of its existing operational space and allow the Franciscan Sisters to consolidate operations into one location.
The new building, which will total more than 12,000 square feet, is adjacent to the Franciscan Village. Construction is expected to take eight months with occupancy of the new facility projected for December 2014. The building is being constructed of cold formed metal framing, brick veneer masonry with EIFS above the masonry.
The building is in a campus-like setting, allowing employees to work in a “comfortable – atmosphere” that includes a fitness area, a lounge and a terraced outdoor patio area.
In addition to the administration building extension JJ Duffy has begun the renovation of the Our Lady of Victory Convent’s first floor which entails the conversion of 34 regular residential units to assisted living units. Construction elements include installing transfer showers which allow residents to transfer from their wheelchairs to a seat in the shower. Additionally, kitchenettes—including new cabinets, counter tops, small refrigerators and microwaves—are being installed in each unit.
To accommodate these converted units — some community areas and serving areas are being changed — to add a concierge desk, kitchens in two community areas, salon and health spa areas. The occupancy of the converted units is projected for the end of July 2014.
