Building Phase II
Building Committee Update - Dec, 2008
December 04, 2008
The Building Committee has been making great progress in the Design Phase of our facilities expansion program. The overall site plan has been finalized. The foot print of the new sanctuary and the connection building are almost set and work has begun on the interior configuration of the new building and the modifications that will be needed in our existing building. However, while a great deal of work has been completed there are still a lot of details to be worked out before the final design will be ready to be brought before a church conference for a vote of approval.
As a result of many meetings, discussions and continuous refinement, there have been some changes to the model we’ve all been looking at for the last seven years. The changes have evolved from intensive discussion about how to build a facility to service our ministry needs while remaining true to our call to be good stewards of our financial resources. And at the same time have as little environmental impact as possible, both in the initial construction of the new facilities and in the future operation of the building. In addition to addressing ministry needs, good stewardship and environmental impact, significant thought is also being given to how to provide for cost effective future expansions with minimal impact on the then existing operations of the church.
While charged with developing the design, the Building Committee is also giving significant consideration to the economic environment we currently find ourselves in. Balancing our ministry needs, both today and in the future, with our commitment as a congregation to remain financially sound is a primary objective. Our potential construction lenders remain optimistic and committed to St. Andrew and this project. While it is not possible at this time to know exactly where the financial markets will be at the time we will need to borrow funds, the Building Committee is working with the Finance Committee and a comprehensive financial plan will be part of the Design Phase recommendation when presented to the church conference for approval.
The current schedule has also changed a little from what has previously been communicated. The Building Committee is now anticipating that the Design Phase will be completed by mid-February, 2009 and the church conference held sometime shortly thereafter. If the church membership approves going forward with the expansion, we should be ready to break ground sometime in the summer of 2009. While the actual ground breaking is a few months later than originally anticipated, design changes have resulted in a shortened projected construction duration so it is still expected that the new facilities will be ready for occupancy in late 2010.
The new site plan, building foot print and preliminary exterior elevations are on display by the new monitor inside the front door and everyone is encouraged to stop by and take a look. Members of the Building Committee will be at the display between most worship services to answer questions and hear your feedback. In addition, as more details are developed they will be on display in Room 252. Please stop by to keep abreast of this important step in the continuing growth of St. Andrew.