Phase 2: Of the Church Renovation

Church Renovation Update 12/15-12/16

Good Evening/Morning/Afternoon

While there has not been much visible progress on the second stage of our church renovation, considerable planning activity has been occurring.  As a reminder, the second stage of the renovation will eventually include the following items:

1. Renovation/renewal of the Sanctuary including new flooring, lighting, and other cosmetic/architectural changes as reviewed with the Diocesan Sacred Places Commission.
2. Renovation of the Sacristy areas including adding a small bathroom to the Vesting Sacristy.
3. New audio/visual system to include additional provisions for overflow mass attendance.
4. Construction of a new Reconciliation room.
5. Renovation and enlargement of the Narthex of the church.
6. Other miscellaneous/maintenance items as necessary to keep the facility safe and functional.

The renovation committee, along with Father Jason has finalized priorities and the architectural firm of Fisher Heck has finalized conceptual drawings and is currently working on construction drawings.  In this process, several building reviews have been undertaken including:

1. A structural review of the building.  The review identified a couple of maintenance items to be addressed but no serious structural issues.
2. A Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing review.  Again, no serious issues were identified, but it was recommended that the electrical distribution box in the mechanical room be replaced.  It is old and obsolete and replacement parts are most likely not being manufactured.
3. Sound system review.  Our sound system is old and needs updating.  
4. A hazardous materials review is currently underway.  There are areas of the church that had not been previously tested.

Members of the Renovation committee have invited several contractors to review this project.  Once construction drawings are complete, the committee will ask for formal bids.  It is our hope that the Sanctuary and the Sacristy portions of the project will be completed by Easter.  

Members of Immaculate Conception have generously donated to this project with approximately $115,000 either donated or committed.  In addition, one our parishioner’s has committed to completely fund the new sound system.  Immaculate Conception thus finds itself ready to proceed once construction drawings are completed.  It is my belief that over the next 60 days, activities will move from being behind the scenes to actual work being performed.

Thanks to all of you for your support of the renovation.