Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center, in partnership with The JDI Group, wanted to renovate the first floor of the building at 545 West Market Street into a new daycare facility. JDI, having previously scanned the contracted areas and exterior, was already familiar with the site and existing conditions of this 100+ year old building.
To support accurate planning, JDI conducted a 3D laser scan of the second and third floors, providing detailed layout documentation and a matrix of spaces. The approved design concept called for the creation of a daycare facility serving infants through five-year-old children, with a capacity of 114.
The programming included:
- A new main entrance specifically for daycare use
- An outdoor greenspace/playground area (as required for licensing)
- Parking lot modifications and traffic flow improvements to support safe pick-up and drop-off
- Secure IT and security systems separate from the main hospital
- Food service support through prepared meals delivered from the main hospital cafeteria
- Designated check-in, administrative offices, and support spaces
The renovation scope also required a change in use from Business (B) to a mixed B/E classification, meeting both the Ohio Building Code and Ohio Department of Job and Family Services requirements for daycare licensing.
JDI provided a full range of architectural, civil, and interior design services, including:
- A partial topographic survey and updated site layout
- Parking lot and right-of-way improvements
- Storm sewer design with integrated underdrains for the playground area
- Design and screening of new gates and equipment
- Variance approval to limit drainage rework otherwise required by city code
- Coordination with the City of Lima Historical Committee for remodel approvals
- Interior design and finish upgrades consistent with daycare program needs
- Lighting, code updates, and architectural modifications in line with the 2024 Revised Ohio Building Code for Existing Buildings
Throughout construction, JDI provided administration services including bi-weekly site meetings, issue resolution, and progress documentation. The project encountered common challenges with aging structures, including asbestos abatement, the discovery of an underground cistern, and the requirement for a 2-hour fire separation due to the change of use. Despite these obstacles, along with permitting delays and budgetary adjustments, the project was completed to the satisfaction of the client.
Today, the facility is fully operational, providing safe, high-quality childcare and early education services for the Lima community.
