West Chester officials favor rebuilding public works facility on existing Lacey Street site; estimates near $12 million

West Chester Borough Council members and staff discussed plans to replace the borough—s aging public works building and retain the same Lacey Street site, saying reusing the lot could save time and money compared with acquiring new land.

The conversation focused on why the building needs replacement now and next steps to design and pay for a new facility. Don Edwards, a staff member who led the presentation, and other staff said the existing structure is deteriorating and would require major, expensive repairs such as replacing HVAC and roofing systems.

Council members pressed for details on alternatives and costs. Council member Brian Travis asked whether the problems were primarily space-related or structural; Edwards said the issue is the condition of the buildings. "The roof, the HVACit's all in a condition where we're going to start paying big money for replacing," Edwards said. Council member Pat…