Council OKs plans for Hangar 244

Irvine — The Orange County Great Park’s Hangar 244 is slated for renovations that include new restrooms and paint as well as significant structural upgrades.

The City Council voted last week to approve construction plans, estimated between $1 million to $1.3 million, to upgrade the facility to meet current building standards.

The project is funded from the Western Sector Park Development Plan, which was approved November 2009, and $475,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, according to a staff report.

The construction project, which includes some demolition, improved power and lighting, plumbing equipment and cosmetic upgrades, is estimated to be completed in summer 2011.

Hangar 244 was slated for remodeling to allow park operations to hold larger events with fewer special permitting requirements.

Additionally, the remodeling includes plans for a “historic room,” which will depict life in 1940s.

—Sarah Peters