Founded in 1994, Work to Ride is a community-based organization dedicated to empowering underserved urban youth in the Philadelphia area through equine sports and horsemanship. The organization engaged Becker & Frondorf to manage the renovation and expansion of the Chamounix Equestrian Center.
Frondorf managed the renovation of the existing 16,500 SF stable building and the construction of an approximately 45,000 SF accessible, pre-engineered indoor equestrian arena, which now supports riding lessons and polo training. The new facility features a 250’x150’ equestrian surface and includes extensive site work renovations such as resurfaced paddocks, a bio-retention basin, and stormwater management systems to support the long-term care of the horses.
The expanded facility significantly enhances the Work to Ride program’s ability to serve Philadelphia’s underserved youth by providing a year-round, accessible space for equine-based activities. The improvements to the site, including upgraded drainage and equine care infrastructure, ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and create a more sustainable and effective learning environment for the youth participants.
Becker & Frondorf played a critical role in managing the coordination between multiple teams to address the unique challenges of the site, particularly with respect to environmental considerations and site-specific requirements. The team ensured that the construction stayed on schedule and within budget, while maintaining constant communication with Work to Ride to meet their operational needs. The completed facility allows Work to Ride to grow its impact, offering more opportunities for mentorship, skill-building, and personal growth through equine sports for years to come.