There’s a full-scale makeover happening at the Ken Ganley Kia dealership on Market Street in Boardman, and Santon Electric is leading the charge on electrical changes.
A crew has been on-site since early spring managing a complete overhaul of the building’s electrical infrastructure. Steve Boyce, the foreman on the job for Santon Electric, is no stranger to the property or this type of project.
“I worked on a previous remodel here 15 years ago when it was Taylor Kia, and I’ve been at other dealerships in the past,” Boyce said. “We’ve installed about 300 can lights throughout the showroom and offices.”
Smart upgrades and managing challenges
In addition to new LED lighting, the dealership’s switching systems are being upgraded to a modern, low-voltage network setup. That allows for lighting to be controlled through touchscreen panels positioned throughout the facility.
“It’s all network cable now. You’ll be able to control entire areas from a centralized touchpad. It’s more efficient and flexible,” Boyce added.
Electricians have been navigating typical construction challenges, like adjustments in design plans, waiting for fixtures to come in and working carefully to keep the power on during business hours.
“We’ve kept the service department running the entire time. That means working around computers and equipment,” he said.
Outside the building, Santon is also wiring an automated car wash bay. It’s one of the newest features being added as part of the dealership’s expanded services.
Maintaining “business as usual”
The location, formerly Taylor Kia, was purchased by Ken Ganley in October 2022. Since then, the dealership has been planning and executing the remodel into a gallery store.
“That’s what Kia considers its top-tier design standard,” said Kenny Blankschaen, fixed operations director, Ken Ganley Kia in Boardman and Alliance. “This is the newest, latest and greatest Kia store, and it’s giving our staff the space they need to grow.”
While construction crews worked on the main building, the sales and finance teams temporarily moved across the street.
“We’re lucky to have that space . It worked out and allowed the construction to move forward without putting people in trailers or cramping the workflow.”
Energized until the end
With a team of three, Santon Electric is making good progress and keeping an eye on the deadlines.
“Other than reworking plans and order delays, overall, it’s been pretty smooth,” Boyce said.
His experience working at dealerships has helped lead the team through all the project’s stages.
“Being familiar with this kind of thing, my anticipation of what’s coming is good.”
The goal is to have the dealership remodel completed by fall, and some exterior work may continue after that.
Santon Electric is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association consisting of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.