Bringing New Life to First Ward: A Commercial Renovation by Serenus Johnson
Nestled at 1410 N 12th St, Saginaw, MI 48601, the First Ward Community Center holds a storied legacy of service, community, and opportunity in Saginaw’s urban core. First Ward Community Center Over the past several months, our team at Serenus Johnson had the privilege of partnering with First Ward on a transformative community center renovation—aimed at modernizing, expanding, and re‑energizing their interior spaces to better serve their mission.
Project Overview & Scope
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- Project Type: Commercial renovation
- Size: ~8,400 sq ft
- Schedule: September 11, 2024 – May 11, 2025
- Delivery Method: General Contracting
- Design Professional: William A. Kibbe
Under the leadership of Project Manager Austin Robishaw and supported by foremen Darwin Reinert (kitchen, storage, gym/bath remodels) and Ben Ginac (corridor remodel), Serenus Johnson mobilized subcontractor partners across multiple trades to deliver on time and on budget.
The renovation encompassed a sweeping overhaul of the basement, which houses men’s and women’s restrooms, a janitor’s closet, and supporting mechanical spaces. But the transformation did not stop there. We expanded the kitchen footprint by reclaiming previous locker room and storage zones, opened new circulation corridors, and reconfigured hallways. The gymnasium and stage area received comprehensive upgrades: new athletic flooring, updated striping, wall protection, and layout adjustments to maximize usable space.
A new exterior fence system also frames the site, reinforcing security and curb appeal. All of these improvements were strategically coordinated to minimize disruption to First Ward’s ongoing operations and community programming.
Partners & Subcontractors
At Serenus Johnson, we believe that strong relationships with subcontractors are at the heart of executing exceptional work. For this project, we collaborated with:
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- Allen Supply
- McMath Masonry
- Standard Tile
- Northern Bay Paint
- AC Klopf
- Wirtz Plumbing & Heating
- Wm. F. Nelson
- On Time Installation
- City Sewer
- Hock Painting
- Mid State Asbestos
- Bay Farm Services
- CPI
These trusted trade partners brought craftsmanship and coordination to every corner—from masonry, tile, and finishes to mechanical, plumbing, paint, and infrastructure. Aligning their schedules under the general contracting umbrella allowed us to maintain flow, avoid trade conflicts, and hold quality at every turn.
Highlights & Challenges
Maximizing Usable Space
One of the most impactful aspects of this renovation was reclaiming underutilized locker and storage zones to enlarge the kitchen. That freed up space to create a more functional, efficient culinary area to support First Ward’s programs.
Gym & Stage Renewal
We upgraded the gym floor with durable athletic surfacing, re-applied court striping, added new basketball hoops and backboards, metal supports and installed wall protection systems to guard against wear and tear. The stage area was refreshed, and the overall layout was reworked to allow for better viewing lines, more flexibility, and increased safety.
Seamless Phasing & Scheduling
Because First Ward remained active during much of the renovation, we carefully phased work to avoid disrupting daily operations. Our teams coordinated nights, weekends, and off-peak hours when possible, and kept clean lines between active spaces and work zones.
Site & Exterior Integration
Replacing the perimeter fence improved security, aesthetics, and the overall presence of the facility. We strove for a balance between durable materials and visual cohesiveness with the neighborhood streetscape.
The Serenus Johnson Difference
Serenus Johnson Construction has been a fixture in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region since 1919, built on a foundation of integrity, professionalism, and lasting relationships. Over more than a century, we’ve served clients across commercial, industrial, educational, healthcare, and civic sectors, applying consistent quality and open communication to every project.
From estimating to closeout, our goal is to walk each customer through a transparent, collaborative process—ensuring the final product meets or exceeds expectations. On this project, we leveraged that approach to support First Ward’s mission and future growth.
Impact for First Ward & the Community
With the community center renovation complete, the First Ward Community Center now boasts modern, inviting spaces that better support its programs. The expanded kitchen footprint, refreshed restrooms, reimagined gym/stage, updated corridors, and improved site elements collectively enhance the usability, flow, and accessibility of the facility.
In practical terms:
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- Greater program capacity: More space for after‑school, senior, and community events.
- Modern amenities: Upgraded bathrooms, kitchen, and finishes align with contemporary expectations.
- Improved aesthetic and morale: A refreshed interior and exterior helps instill pride and engagement.
- Operational efficiency: Reconfigured layouts and modern systems reduce maintenance burdens.
Moreover, First Ward holds deep roots in the Saginaw community as a nonprofit focused on youth, senior, and family services. First Ward Community Center Our work supports their ability to serve more people and deliver a stronger experience for those who rely on their programs.
Interestingly, in 2025 First Ward was also named as a partner in a new urban hockey initiative, bringing ice hockey programming to inner-city youth in collaboration with the Saginaw Spirit and NHL partners. While that initiative lies outside the scope of our renovation, the upgraded gym spaces and community infrastructure will only strengthen First Ward’s ability to host expanded youth athletics over time.
Closing & Call to Action
We are proud of the First Ward Community Center Renovation project—not only as a showcase of our technical and organizational capabilities—but as a meaningful contribution to the vitality of Saginaw. To the leadership, staff, and community partners at First Ward: thank you for entrusting us with this transformational work.
For those interested in seeing the finished project or learning more about how Serenus Johnson can support your commercial renovation, public facility, or community building needs, please reach out via our website or call (989) 686‑1900.
Let’s continue building spaces that connect people, uplift neighborhoods, and endure for generations.
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