Update: Sanctuary Renovation Project Cost Cutting Research Continues

Posted

It’s been a number of weeks since we learned that construction bids for the Sanctuary Preservation and Readiness Project came in severely over our budget. We’ve worked hard to find significant ways to reduce the scope of the project and quantify the available savings. We are confident that we are headed toward balancing construction costs and available funds.

Each idea requires extensive research by our Facilities Committee, our architect Bob Easton, and our structural and mechanical engineering consultants. We are also engaging the opinions of Armstrong Associates, which we have designated as the general contractor we will engage when we are ready to proceed. No timeline has yet been set to begin construction.

The main goals of the project continue to be:

1. Seismically strengthen the Sanctuary
2. Add a Memorial Chapel with columbarium
3. Replace our failing pipe organ
4. Improve accessibility

Here are a few of the ideas being explored to reduce the complexity and scope of the project. Please note that no decisions have been made regarding any changes. The parish will be kept informed, and the Vestry will make all final decisions:

• Reduce the complexity of the nave subfloor by using wood instead of concrete – saves concrete costs and duct costs
• Put off re-roofing the church until the current roof wears out (installed in 2011) — this means a slight reduction in seismic strength but can be added later
• Reduce the complexity of the heating/air conditioning system – avoids removing the current basement and rebuilding a larger one
• Do not add the 800 to 1,000 new square feet in the back of the Sanctuary which was proposed to create the Seaside Chapel, improve storage/functionality, etc. – saves substantial new construction costs
• Do not rebuild the exterior walls/structure that currently houses our vesting area and altar/flower guilds – saves wood, carpentry costs
• Remove the peaked Memorial Chapel/columbarium ceiling and replace with a barrel or other type of ceiling – saves concrete costs and allows for a ventilating fan to be located in the attic space above the Chapel instead of in an enlarged basement
• Revisit organ complexity, including the potential of installing a digital or hybrid organ v. tracker – less expensive instrument with fewer HVAC and structural requirements

We look forward to moving these ideas to the point that we can share fully with the parish in order to obtain feedback and suggestions. Please stay tuned! In the meantime, feel free to ask any of us your questions or offer ideas.

 

The Project Facilities Committee

Pete Adams

Sheri Benninghoven

Kathleen Bright, Director of Administration

The Rev. Aimee Eyer-Delevett

Alyson Eyer-Delevett, Project Manager

Tom Mack

Chip Nichols, Chair

George Writer