Penfield invites community to celebrate the start of construction on the Alpheus Clark House project with May 6 groundbreaking

Penfield, New York – A new chapter is about to begin at Shadow Pines as the Town of Penfield moves forward with a project that blends historical preservation with modern community use. Town Supervisor Jeff Leenhouts has announced that a groundbreaking ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 6, at 3 p.m. to officially kick off construction at the site of the Alpheus Clark House, located at 1960 Clark Road.

The event is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend and celebrate the start of this highly anticipated initiative. The project will bring new life to the Alpheus Clark House, a historic structure rooted in the town’s past, by restoring its original portion and replacing the remainder with a newly constructed facility.

In total, the project involves rehabilitating the oldest section of the building, removing the more modern additions that have fallen into disrepair, and constructing a roughly 5,800-square-foot event space. The new space is designed with the community in mind and will be available to rent for events—much like other lodges throughout Penfield.

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“This is a tremendous project for our community, and I hope you will join us as we celebrate this momentous day,” said Town Supervisor Jeff Leenhouts. “The community has shaped every part of this effort, and it’s a proud new addition to the Shadow Pines property for all to enjoy.”

A notable feature of the new construction will be public restrooms accessible from outside the building, offering a convenient resource for visitors to the Shadow Pines property, which has become a popular destination for walking, recreation, and enjoying green space.

The decision to restore the historic house while building a modern extension reflects the town’s broader goal of honoring its history while planning for future needs. Shadow Pines, once a golf course, has been gradually transformed into a multi-use public space, and this latest project is a key milestone in that effort.

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Officials have confirmed that construction is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026, marking a substantial investment in both the physical infrastructure and cultural fabric of the community. By preserving a piece of Penfield’s history and repurposing it for today’s residents, the project aims to build a bridge between the town’s past and its future.

The groundbreaking ceremony will not only mark the beginning of construction, but also serve as a celebration of local vision and collaboration. As work gets underway, Penfield residents can look forward to watching a historic landmark evolve into a vibrant and functional space that reflects the values of the community.