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Masonic Villages and Irem Shrine Partner to Build New Clubhouse
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Masonic Villages and Irem Shrine Partner to Build New Clubhouse
Last week, both the Irem Shrine membership and the Masonic Villages' board of directors agreed to construct a new clubhouse on the grounds of the Irem Country Club in lieu of renovating the existing clubhouse, which was part of an original plan. In addition to Irem Shrine members and residents of the Masonic Village at Dallas, the community will benefit from the use of this building for special functions such as wedding receptions and meetings, as are currently offered within the existing building.
The new 26,868 sq. ft. Irem Shrine Center and Country Club will include offices, storage space and meeting rooms for Irem Shrine members and units, locker rooms, a game room and potentially a wellness center and a bank on the first floor. The second floor will feature a restaurant, a bistro/bar with deck space, a private dining room, a ballroom for special events, lobby area, central kitchen and restrooms.
The new clubhouse will be built behind the existing clubhouse, so that operations can continue throughout the construction process without interrupting the restaurant services, wedding receptions or other events scheduled at the existing facility. Expected to open in summer 2008 at the earliest, the new clubhouse will offer the same spectacular views to the south of the number one tee and 18th hole, and to the north of the 11th green and 12th tee. The building will be handicap accessible to both floors from the outside, and an elevator will provide access between floors. Parking and road improvements will be included in the plan, which will be submitted to the township for review and approval.
The project is expected to cost approximately $5.1 million.
"This project is a wonderful way to build upon the excellent reputation the Irem Shrine Country Club has in the community by enhancing their quality services." said Joseph E. Murphy, CEO for the Masonic Villages. "We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to grow our partnership in such a mutually beneficial way."
Irem Shrine Potentate Harry L. Wood, III, agrees. "I think it's a great move. I'm glad we voted to move forward with this partnership between the Masonic Villages and the Irem Shrine. I'm anxious to see it get started because it will be a real benefit to both of our organizations."
In the recent vote by the Irem Shrine membership, the Masonic Villages will operate the clubhouse under this agreement.
The first five residents moved into their new cottages at the Masonic Village at Dallas in mid-January. The first phase of the community, offering 38 cottages and 45 apartments featuring various floor plans, is anticipated to be completed in phases from May to October 2007. Also part of the planned improvements for the site is a new driving range, which could be ready for use this fall, as well as a new maintenance building. The master plan for the community includes future possible development of up to 222 additional retirement living accommodations, based on demand.
Retirement living residents will have preferred access to local designated healthcare facilities, as well as any of the Masonic Village healthcare facilities across the Commonwealth. The community is also collaborating with area businesses and professionals to establish relationships to ensure residents are afforded the opportunity to enjoy recreational, wellness, cultural, educational and social programs.
Individuals interested in learning more about the Masonic Village at Dallas may call Colleen Burns, Administrator, at (866) 852-4243. For questions or comments regarding the clubhouse, contact Joseph E. Murphy, CEO, at (717) 367-1121, ext. 33262.
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