Block22 project boosts local economy
Tuesday, August 22, 2017 2:00 AM
People and Society, Milestones, News
Pittsburg, KS
During the construction and renovation phase, the project is providing benefits for many local businesses and contractors. More than 10 local companies are contributing to Block22, with services ranging from masonry and wood framing to HVAC and electrical systems.
“When we say that Block22 is a partnership between PSU and the city, we’re not just talking about campus and community officials,” said Shawn Naccarato, PSU’s chief strategy officer. “The companies and contractors who are making Block22 possible are based right here in Pittsburg and surrounding communities. So, Block22 is truly providing an economic boost for several local businesses.
“We pride ourselves on supporting local business, and this is a great example of how PSU and professionals from across our region work together to improve our community,” he said.
One of the companies helping with the project is CDL Electric, which is providing plumbing, HVAC, electrical and low voltage systems. President and CEO Larry Seward said CDL is excited to be a part of the Block22 project.
“CDL Electric is always excited to be involved with initiatives that benefit Pittsburg State and the Pittsburg community,” Seward said. “The Block22 project does that and will help continue the revitalization of the downtown area. There are a lot of good companies involved, and we’re honored to be one of them.”
In addition to student housing, the Block22 project at 4th and Broadway will also include offices for the University Strategic Initiatives, Enterprise PSU, a makerspace (a collaborative community workspace designed for creativity and prototyping), business incubator, co-working area, various commercial spaces and a multi-function event and educational space.
Heikes Masonry and Restoration in Pittsburg is providing masonry, exterior plaster and exterior painting services for Block22.
“To be honest, we’ve been very excited to get our hands on this project,” said owner Derek Heikes. “It’s an honor for us to be a part of this project and to help renovate these four historic buildings in downtown Pittsburg. It’s really nice to see those properties being used for something that will benefit PSU and the entire community.”
Steve Scott, president of Pittsburg State, said having several local businesses working on the project is a true testament to the relationship between PSU and the region.
“Pittsburg State has long shared a unique, special relationship with the city of Pittsburg and the southeast Kansas region,” Scott said. “I’ve said before that I believe that relationship is the envy of college towns across the country. I’m very proud and grateful that so many local companies agreed to be a part of Block22. It shows, once again, that almost everything we do is a true community effort.”
Dustin Wilson, owner of Wilson Builders, said he’s proud to work on a project that will benefit so many people.
“I’m very happy to work on a project like Block22, because I really believe it will improve the community,” he said. “It’s wonderful that we’re making good use of these historic buildings downtown and finally giving them the attention they deserve. I think Block22 will benefit Pittsburg for many years to come.”
Other local and regional companies involved with Block22 include Randy Vilela Trucking, Hauling and Demo, B-3 Construction, Denny Crete, RP3, Inc., Broadway Lumber, Goins Enterprise, Unique Metal Fabrications and Vecino Design Build, LLC.
To learn more about Block22, visit https://www.pittstate.edu/info/block22/index.dot.