One way that KIER’s mission, “Enhancing communities and improving the quality of life one project at a time,” can be observed is through a few remarkable “steps.” Those “steps” have resulted in a long-standing partnership and friendship with First Step House, a specialized substance abuse and behavioral health treatment organization that serves individuals who are unable to help themselves.
Step one began in 2015 when KIER won the bid as Construction Manager for First Step House, a 20,000 sq ft, three-story, 70-bed residential treatment facility designated for adult males experiencing homelessness and behavioral issues.
After two years of fund-raising (including proceeds donated by KIER from two of their annual charitable golf tournaments), step two began. KIER was awarded the role of General Contractor on the 7-story, 75-unit facility now known as Central City Apartments. The entire second floor of Central City is dedicated to round-the-clock support staff; including counselors, nurses, case workers, maintenance personnel, etc. Central City provides permanent housing, supportive services, and outpatient mental health services to vulnerable individuals experiencing homelessness.
Step three ushered in Medina Place, the anchor of the First Step House trio of communities on 5th East. Again, KIER served as the Construction Manager. This 7-story, 35,000 sq ft facility added another 40-units to house vulnerable individuals who were/are willing to do what is needed to transition from homelessness into permanent housing.
KIER’s most recent step with the First Step team was the task of renovating the second and third floor of the historic Stratford Apartments in downtown Salt Lake. This 46-studio apartment community is designated for those well below the area’s median income and in need of the services that First Step House provides.
Over the years KIER has been honored to sponsor First Step’s annual “First Course for First Step House,” fundraising breakfast among other sponsorship opportunities. Kier employees have also answered the call to fill volunteer slots as the need arises.
This ten-year journey has taken many steps – performing work that really matters. First Step’s great work is housed in a safe and comfortable structure that KIER built.
