An Interview with the Developer
Wednesday, March 10th, 2010Scott Casuccio is the property owner, and developer of the site of the new Howell IceWorld rink. Scott, a Wall Township resident has been in the construction field for over 25 years. He was kind enough to offer us his insight on the project.
Scott, thanks for talking to us. Tell us how you came to construct a hockey facility?
I have built Flex Office/Warehouse space in the past. I was planning on constructing 3 such buildings here at my Howell property when a business associate introduced me to George Haviland and his partners. We hit it off and the rest is history. The building sizes we had already gotten approvals for fit his ice needs beautifully. We will have the hockey in the front, and we are still looking for compatible tenants for the two other buildings.
Did you just get started on this project Howell?
“No. It has taken me four years of hard work by my team and many professionals to get to this point. We have our approvals and have crossed some pretty high hurdles. I have already completed the site work needed to begin pouring my footings. This 60 degree weather has gotten rid of the snow for us. It’s been a long wait for me and I’m excited to begin seeing the structure come together.”
That’s the biggest question people have: How long does this type of building take to put up?
“The building is pre-engineered steel frame. Most of my steel is on the site, the modified clear span truss work has been ordered, and the reaction drawings are complete. You will be surprised on how quickly it will come together. 3 months for the shell, including the decorative block and fascia work on the outside. We wanted this place to look better than some of the aluminum box rinks you see.”
What about completion, is September reasonable?
Yes. It’s very reasonable. The good news is that the inside walls, which are pretty simple to construct can begin before the outside is done. Once the roof is on, rink specialists will come in and do the installation while we are completing the exterior of the building. I have been in this business for many years, and I know I need to anticipate Murphy’s Law, but I also pride myself in using my crews and delivering projects on time. Believe me, this project is my first priority.
Scott , will we see you on the ice?
Well, I have not had skates on since I was a kid on Lake Lefferts in Matawan with my friends. But I have to tell you I am a real sports guy and I am excited about this project. I plan to be there to watch the games, and see people have a good time… and you just might see me out there.
