Heavy Timber Framing Progresses at Upper Macungie Township Indoor Soccer Facility

News Summary

The construction of the Upper Macungie Township Community Lifestyle Center is advancing with heavy timber framing now one-quarter complete. This $49 million facility will cater to the community’s recreational needs, featuring two flex gyms and an amenity building within its expansive 133,000 square feet. The project demonstrates a commitment to using sustainable materials and a design reflecting the township’s agricultural heritage. Despite some challenges, the facility is expected to be completed by summer of 2026, promising to enhance community engagement and recreation.

Heavy Timber Framing Progresses at Upper Macungie Township’s Indoor Soccer Facility

Construction of the highly anticipated indoor soccer facility at the UMT Community Lifestyle Center is well underway, as heavy timber framing has reached one quarter completion. With the roof framework now in progress, crews from StructureCraft have started installing glulam purlins and two layers of plywood, marking a significant step forward for this $49 million project designed to meet the recreational needs of a growing Pennsylvania township.

The indoor soccer facility is a key component of the community recreation center, which comprises four interconnected buildings totaling approximately 188,000 square feet. The largest structure among these is the 133,000 square foot indoor soccer facility, which is set to feature two flexible gyms as well as an amenity and lobby building, providing ample space for various recreational activities.

Structural Details and Design

The facility’s interior will boast gable walls framed with Austrian glulam columns and wind girts, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Designed as a cost-effective heavy timber-steel hybrid, the building employs innovative techniques intended to minimize costs, as timber construction was found to be competitively priced with steel during the planning stages.

StructureCraft, based in British Columbia, serves as the structural engineer and superstructure design builder for the project, ensuring that the design adheres to the highest standards. The construction process utilizes approximately 50,000 cubic feet of glulam beams, columns, and trusses complemented by 250,000 pounds of steel structural members. This combination not only highlights the use of sustainable materials but also promotes efficient building methods aimed at creating a durable recreational facility.

Project Timeline and Funding

After nearly a decade of planning, the architectural team has finalized the design for the community lifestyle center, which is anticipated to become a landmark for the community. The project saw its initial timber superstructure erection begin in April, with a goal to finish the major structural work by the end of the year. Residents can expect the facility to open in the summer of 2026.

The estimated total funding for the center includes $44 million from awarded bids along with $750,000 in federal funds and $5 million from the state. These financial resources are crucial in enabling the construction team to complete the facility and its associated amenities.

Adapting to Challenges

Despite facing challenges related to procurement and evolving design details, the construction teams have been proactive, adapting schedules to compensate for time lost due to spring rains. The crews are currently focused on expediting the process to ensure that the building is secured against potential weather impacts.

Importantly, the design of the indoor soccer facility has been developed with the community’s needs in mind, ensuring that it offers opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. By enhancing access to recreational activities, the facility aims to strengthen community ties and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Upper Macungie Township Manager Robert Ibach has expressed optimism regarding the project’s progress, emphasizing its alignment with the area’s agricultural heritage through post-and-beam construction. As work continues, the opportunity for residents to engage in various recreational activities is set to grow, reflecting the community’s commitment to a vibrant and active lifestyle.

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Additional Resources

• Engineering News-Record: Pennsylvania Project Team Wrangles with Long-Span Timber Complexities
• The Morning Call: Upper Macungie Community Lifestyle Center Photos
• Lehigh Valley News: New Pickleball Courts Likely Coming to the Parkland Area
• 6ABC: Woman Attacked and Killed by Own Dog in Lehigh County
• Wikipedia: Community Center
• Google Search: Upper Macungie Township Community Lifestyle Center