9/14/2011
ANSTED, W.Va. – Boiler-fired and water-cooled air system controls are coming to an end at Hawks Nest State Park soon. The heating and cooling system at the park is getting revamped in November and December.
“We currently operate with either heat from a boiler system or cooled air from a chilled water system at the park lodge,” said John Bracken, park superintendent. “The hot or cold water use the same lines, so we’re either in heat or cool mode. You can imagine how frustrating it is for guests and staff in the spring and fall, when we often have to quickly switch from air conditioning during the warmer days to heat for the colder nights. But thankfully, that’s changing.”
Starting November 1 and going no later than mid-January 2012, the new heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be installed. The existing boiler system will continue to operate during the upgrade, allowing for some of the lodge rooms to be available for overnight guests and visitors. Individual rooms will be closed temporarily during the installation of the state-of-the-art energy-efficient heating and cooling system.
At the same time, the park will replace beds, furniture, window treatments and televisions in the rooms and lobby area. “It’s an opportunity to refurbish and replace dated equipment and amenities,” Bracken said.
During the improvement period, in addition to the lodge rooms, the park restaurant, walking and hiking trails, and lower scenic overlook will remain open. The popular dinner theaters will continue and include availability of overnight accommodations. Restaurant managers Steve and Vicki Thomas will host holiday parties and gatherings as normal and are currently booking the restaurant and banquet room. Existing group reservations will be honored.
“Other than installers working on individual rooms for HVAC upgrades, it will be business as usual,” said Bracken. After the HVAC upgrade, the park anticipates an increase in compliments by guests about comfort level. “These upgrades are work and improvements we’ve hoped to accomplish for several years.”
For information regarding upgrades and lodge operation, call park headquarters during business hours at 304-658-5196. For reservations and restaurant information, contact 304-658-5212 or visit,
www.hawksnestsp.com.
Contact Information
Paul Redford, District Administrator or John Bracken, Park Superintendent
304-558-2764 or 304-658-5196
hoy.r.murphy@wv.gov or
john.l.bracken@wv.gov