East 91st Street Christian Church Sanctuary & Narthex Expansion
The initial project included the addition of 2 wings or transepts to the church’s main sanctuary totaling 4,650 sq. ft. The expansion entails 2 levels of seating with the large span beams on the balcony, eliminating the need for the interim columns. All work was completed on a fast-tracked basis, saving months within the construction schedule. To ease concerns about the soil bearing capacity for the sanctuary expansion and the structural loading the foundation utilizes relatively new system, steel helical piers. This is one of the few projects in the state to have used this system saving the Owner approximately $50,000.
The Narthex Expansion was completed in addition to and conjunction with the original Sanctuary Expansion. The project added gathering space and was constructed at the main entry to the existing building where Wurster was required to maintain access to the Church’s daily operations.
The Education Wing is a 34,900 sq. ft. building addition that will serve children through the 6th grade. The structure is comprised of precast panels and structural steel, while the 2nd floor features metal decking and light weight concrete. The addition of new corridors connecting the new building to the existing is also part of this project. The existing Children’s Wing will also be remodeled with a new check-in and drop off area, a new classroom, nurse’s office, and kitchenette and laundry room. All work will be completed while the existing church is in use for daily activities such as Sunday worship for 5,000, bible studies, youth programs and a pre-school.
