BMT Center plans finalized; owner seeks permits, builder NextWay Concepts to start renovation
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Summary
Devonna Thomas told the board she has final renovation plans and a contractor for the BMT Center and will submit permits to convert the building into a youth center and café.
Devonna Thomas updated the board Thursday on her planned renovation of the BMT Center, saying finalized plans are complete, a builder (NextWay Concepts) is secured and she will submit permit applications to the city.
Thomas said the upstairs will be dedicated to a youth center with after‑school programming for grades 6–12 and that the first floor will include a two‑level café and three small business suites for lease. She said the plan includes a commercial kitchen to support an after‑school feeding program and a potential dual‑credit course in partnership with Southwestern Christian College and Terrell ISD.
Why it matters: The conversion aims to add youth programming, revenue from leased commercial suites and an on‑site feeding program; Thomas said the facility will offer after‑school tuition options and will pursue partnerships with local colleges and the school district.
Costs and schedule: Thomas said earlier preliminary budgets ranged from roughly $250,000 to $350,000 on the high end, and she also reported that NextWay Concepts estimated a construction schedule of about three months once permits are in hand. Staff and the board discussed the need for permit filing and coordination; Thomas said she had emailed finalized plans to staff and will submit formal permit applications.
Ending: Board members thanked Thomas for the update and encouraged coordination with staff on permitting and any requests for assistance or future grant applications.