Peters Complex Concession Stand Gets Revamped

When Rick Brauchler worked in the Peter's Complex concession stand during the Allstarts Softball tournament over the last few years, he started to realize that the space was in need of some pretty major repairs. So, Brachler, who lives in Clinton with his wife and two children, decided to spearhead a project to revamp the space and give something back to the town. 

"The way this project came about was that I had worked in the concession stand during the Allstars Softball tournament for the past few years and realized that the space really needed an update," Rick Brauchler, of Jr. & Co. LLC, said in an email to Clinton Patch. "Obviously Town funds are very tight in this economy so I offered to rehab the space free of charge and call in some favors from tradesmen we use to get it done."

Brauchler shared that the cost of all the materials were absorbed by his company, most at a discounted rate from their suppliers, and all of the labor was donated.

Extensive renovations were needed to revamp the space, and lots of folks pitched in to help.

"Basically we stripped everything out of the space," said  Brauchler. "Atlantic Restoration came in to de-grease, clean and sanitize all of the surfaces, then Fitzgerald Painting followed behind to seal and finish paint the surfaces with a commercial grade paint that's easy to maintain."

Many local businesses also donated their time and/or materials to the project. 

Jason Zelek, of Connected Systems, removed the old fluorescent ceiling lights and replaced them with sealed units to meet health code and provide for easy cleaning. Zelek's company also replaced damaged outlets and switches and installed new exterior downlighting. 

Steve Bradley,  of Pondside Kitchens, donated new laminate countertops in 'Husky' Blue with White edging. 

Steve Scagliarinni, of Scags Plumbing, donated his time and materials to re-install the two sinks with new plumbing connections and also replaced one of the faucets that was in need of repair.

"Our carpenters built all new base cabinetry with pre-finished maple interiors, painted face frames and raised-panel doors ... a major improvement over the old 2x4 and bare plywood boxes," Brauchler shared.

Additionally, new adjustable wire shelving were also installed, with the intention of meeting health codes. It also allows for easy cleaning.

"We'd want to thank First Selectman Willie Fritz and Parks and Rec Director Bo Potter for all their help and insight, as well as Landon Lumber, Tuxis Lumber and Clinton Paint and Decorating for helping with the materials needed," Brauchler continued. 

"Had it not been for materials discounts and donations of labor, the full retail price of the remodel would have been in the $10K - $11K range. Feedback was very positive as everyone enjoyed the updated and more functional space and appreciated the ease of cleanup.  We were all happy to give something back to a Town that does so much for all of our children participating in the youth sports programs and invite everyone down to see the improvements and order up a burger or hot dog!"

The remodel was completed the night before Little League's Opening Day festivities.

Check out our 'Before' photos of the complex. We weren't able to snag any updated ones, so you'll have to head down to the complex to check it out for yourself!