We are currently looking at Architectural firms to do a concept for long range planning.  At this time there is only one being considered.  That is Architectural Design Group.  Follow these links for a list of some of their recent church design projects
ADG List Page 1
ADG List Page 2

Action has been taken at the semi annual meeting to engage ADG to do a site survey and interviews with the congregation to assist in making long range plans for the future of East Immanuel.  Watch here for news about the process.

Notes from 5 September meeting with Tim Peterson, Architectural Design Group.  Click here for document.

15 July congregational meeting with Architectural Design Group.

·         About ADG

o        Background in a lot of religious facility master planning and long range planning

o        Flexible to work with congregations in a variety of ways

o        Will need to do information gathering with the congregation

o        Work with congregations to:

§         Identify space needs

§         Develop program statement

§         Master plan with phases

o        They will provide:

§         Site plans/floor plans for the existing building

§         Measured drawings

§         Schematics of electrical, plumbing, etc.

§         Realistic goals

·         Q&A time

o        What would it cost to do a study?

§         Approximately $5,000 to $7,500

o        Are we going to be forced to upgrade our septic system no matter what?

§         Perhaps…whatever we do for bathrooms would require an upgrade to water and septic.  This question highlights the need to have a coordinated plan.

o        What are the accessibility requirements if we wanted (for example) to use the Sunday School wing for a fellowship hall?

§         There would have to be an additional accessible entrance, a ramp to remove steps, and full restroom accessibility.

o        What is the cost for an elevator?

§         Approximately $100,000 to install plus yearly maintenance and inspections.

o        What is an average cost per square foot for construction?

§         Approximately $120 for sanctuary space and $100 for fellowship.

o        If a site study is done do you identify deficiencies or problems?

§         There would be a full report on life expectancy of systems and other maintenance that should be done.

o        What is the square foot requirement for occupancy?

§         About 10 to 12 sq feet per person.

o        What if the congregation decides to do nothing?

§         The septic system and well probably need replacement no matter what.  If nothing is done to the sanctuary it could remain the same without additional changes for accessibility.

o        If a project is done in phases is it possible that codes could change before it is done?

§         Of course codes could change.  Most code changes are for safety and health concerns and probably could be covered with changes to the plan.