Montgomery County Employment Center

With the intent of bringing a variety of workforce development services to the West Dayton area, Montgomery County partnered with Skilken Gold, a Columbus-based real estate development firm, to transform a vacant grocery space into a community hub for training, mentoring, and job search resources.

Skilken Gold turned to Miller Valentine to provide construction management services for the $2.2 million project. The developer chose Miller Valentine in part for our expertise with adaptive reuse projects. In addition, the team wanted a construction partner that had a local presence, that was invested in the community, and that had a proven track record of working collaboratively with project stakeholders.

Miller Valentine worked alongside the architect, engineer, and owner to provide the best, most cost-effective solutions to fulfill the client’s vision. As is common with adaptive reuse projects, the construction team encountered inaccuracies in the as-builts after work began. Miller Valentine worked hand-in-hand with all project partners to quickly devise creative solutions to challenges as they arose.

The result is a thriving, contemporary environment. Upscale finishes and features have elevated the former grocery store into a welcoming space for hosting meetings, training sessions, one-on-one assistance, and more. More importantly, the facility has enabled the county and partner organizations to improve access to opportunities for area residents.

Building Features

• Classrooms, offices, meeting spaces, and resource rooms
• New lobby and reception desk
• Kitchen and café with a breakroom
• Job and Family Services office
• Dock and storage
• Exterior site and accessibility improvements