Building Project Updates
Construction Update 🚧🚧 11-8-2022
Images and Information from April 3 Building Forum
Please note, this is same link we used for ERLC Online Worship
back in the day
back in the day
BUILDING COMMITTEE PROGRESS UPDATE (Thursday, March 17, 2022)
The Building Committee, with the approval of the Church Council, has contracted with Terra Construction and CNH Architects to produce updated construction plans and cost estimates. Construction costs have increased since 2019 and we have learned that some of our initial cost estimates were quite low. From the beginning we have been committed to not borrowing funds to complete these projects. Thus, we are planning to move forward with a phased building plan, and we are planning for a second capital campaign this fall.
Both the Building Committee and the Church Council recommend moving forward with the following first phase of construction:
The original proposed Sanctuary remodel drawings remain quite accurate to the overall plans for the space. One element that has proved challenging is the stained-glass window. Some of you will know that Elk River Lutheran was gifted a stained-glass window from the ELCA. When it arrived at the church many years ago it was discovered to have been damaged during transit. In preparation for this building project, we have received an estimate of $53,000 to have the window repaired and installed. We are exploring other options for repairing the window or designing a more cost effective, but still beautiful, focal point for the space.
The building committee has explored multiple versions of the originally proposed vestibule addition. However, each variation of the original plan has proven to be cost prohibitive (~$300,000 for the vestibule alone). The revised proposed plan includes more cost-effective entrance enhancements. Facility visibility will be greatly improved through upgraded lighting, enhanced signage, and an attractive canopy.
The church has three flat roofs at different levels and two of the three need attention before completing interior renovations. This will be paid for with $50,000 designated from the capital campaign (in the building fund) for deferred maintenance, and the other $40,000 will come from the church’s regular deferred maintenance fund.
Future Phase Projects: Terra Construction has also provided us with estimates for the following future phases of construction including our previously planned Additional Outdoor Beautification & Signage, (including modified drive-through and patio) at a cost of $150,000, and Stucco Repair of $100,000.
At our upcoming congregational forum, the Building Committee will share more detailed drawings and plans and invite your candid feedback. With our current timeline, we would hope to receive feedback and finalize plans in the next few months and hold a special congregational meeting in May to approve entering into this contract for construction, which would likely begin in late August.
While the pandemic helped affirm that the church is much more than just a building, it also made me realize how often I’ve taken for granted the value of gathering together in a sacred space. Thank you for your love and support of this church. I am incredibly excited for these projects to become a reality as we move forward with these steps to make our building as welcoming as our people.
Many Thanks,
Pastor Nathan
The Building Committee, with the approval of the Church Council, has contracted with Terra Construction and CNH Architects to produce updated construction plans and cost estimates. Construction costs have increased since 2019 and we have learned that some of our initial cost estimates were quite low. From the beginning we have been committed to not borrowing funds to complete these projects. Thus, we are planning to move forward with a phased building plan, and we are planning for a second capital campaign this fall.
Both the Building Committee and the Church Council recommend moving forward with the following first phase of construction:
- Remodel/Enhance Sanctuary and Relocate the Main Entrance to the Fellowship Hall
The original proposed Sanctuary remodel drawings remain quite accurate to the overall plans for the space. One element that has proved challenging is the stained-glass window. Some of you will know that Elk River Lutheran was gifted a stained-glass window from the ELCA. When it arrived at the church many years ago it was discovered to have been damaged during transit. In preparation for this building project, we have received an estimate of $53,000 to have the window repaired and installed. We are exploring other options for repairing the window or designing a more cost effective, but still beautiful, focal point for the space.
The building committee has explored multiple versions of the originally proposed vestibule addition. However, each variation of the original plan has proven to be cost prohibitive (~$300,000 for the vestibule alone). The revised proposed plan includes more cost-effective entrance enhancements. Facility visibility will be greatly improved through upgraded lighting, enhanced signage, and an attractive canopy.
- Roof Repair/Replacement
The church has three flat roofs at different levels and two of the three need attention before completing interior renovations. This will be paid for with $50,000 designated from the capital campaign (in the building fund) for deferred maintenance, and the other $40,000 will come from the church’s regular deferred maintenance fund.
Future Phase Projects: Terra Construction has also provided us with estimates for the following future phases of construction including our previously planned Additional Outdoor Beautification & Signage, (including modified drive-through and patio) at a cost of $150,000, and Stucco Repair of $100,000.
At our upcoming congregational forum, the Building Committee will share more detailed drawings and plans and invite your candid feedback. With our current timeline, we would hope to receive feedback and finalize plans in the next few months and hold a special congregational meeting in May to approve entering into this contract for construction, which would likely begin in late August.
While the pandemic helped affirm that the church is much more than just a building, it also made me realize how often I’ve taken for granted the value of gathering together in a sacred space. Thank you for your love and support of this church. I am incredibly excited for these projects to become a reality as we move forward with these steps to make our building as welcoming as our people.
Many Thanks,
Pastor Nathan
Building Committee Members
Martha Hippe
Adam Horner (Chair)
Pastor Nathan Mugaas
John Natwick
Gregory Pouliot
Krista Schrock
Ronald Stricker
Adam Horner (Chair)
Pastor Nathan Mugaas
John Natwick
Gregory Pouliot
Krista Schrock
Ronald Stricker