Pipe Fitters, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Local 636 has changed addresses only a few times since it was chartered in 1914, but its new location looks to be the best one yet.

On Oct. 20, the local union had a dedication ceremony to mark the opening of its new office, a 10,200-square-foot building that will allow the local union to take care of business more efficiently.

"Congratulations on a beautiful facility," said United Association of Plumbers, Pipe Fitters and Sprinkler Fitters General President Martin Maddaloni, on hand at the building's dedication. "You've had hard times in the past and you'll have hard times in the future, but we're thankful that we can reap the benefit today of a strong economy. It takes strong leadership and commitment by the members to attain such a fine facility."

The single-story building has a burnished concrete base, copper siding, and plenty of windows. Inside, nicely appointed common areas, offices and a conference room will provide a classy space for taking care of local union business.

The new $2.5 million building, located at 30100 Northwestern Hwy. in Farmington Hills, is triple the size of the old union hall in Detroit. The building's office, conference and meeting rooms are expected to help meet the needs of the local union, which has grown 17 percent in the last four years.

In his remarks, Local 636 Business Manager Jim Lapham alluded to the local's Irish tradition, with leaders over the years named McNamara, McCarthy and Kelly. And the local itself was given its charter on St. Patrick's Day of 1914.

"We seem to have an Irish tradition in the local, but we also have a tradition of looking out for our retirees, and fighting for our members. We are proud to have been part of the progress that helped our industry emerge from the Dark Ages of 50-hour work-weeks and $3 a day."