PROJECT FAQ
WHAT WILL THE PROJECT COST?
The estimated range for the project is $2-$2.4 million, which we intend to raise through a combination of fundraising and financing.
HOW WAS THIS PROJECT SIZE AND SCOPE SELECTED?
The committee carefully reviewed options and balanced the shul's present and future needs with a realistic fundraising target. For example, pursuing a plan that called for demolishing the entire original house is beyond what we reasonably believe our fundraising can achieve right now. At the same time, deferring all construction in order to wait for a theoretical full property plan would result in neglecting areas of real need in the present and near-future.
WHAT IS THE TIME FRAME FOR THE PROJECT?
We began construction in summer 2022. We anticipate the project will be completed in early 2024.
WHAT WILL THE NEW BEIT MIDRASH BE LIKE?
The new beit midrash is designed with a more efficient configuration that will better maximize space. The seating capacity will be roughly the same as in the current beit midrash. Most importantly, this makom Torah will be an enclosed room, will allow for more bookcases and room for sefarim and will no longer be used as a "pass through" space, kiddush room or lobby.
WILL THIS PROJECT ENABLE US TO ADD NEW MINYANIM TO OUR SCHEDULE?
Yes. The social hall will have dividers that can break up the space. In combination with the beit midrash, we expect this will allow us to add a third shabbos morning minyan housed in our building, such as a weekly teen minyan.
HOW MUCH SPACE DO WE GAIN FOR YOUTH GROUPS?
This project will double our available youth space throughout the building, giving us between 6-8 designated groups areas. We will better accommodate our growing youth program and our children will participate in age-appropriate activities in comfort.
DOES THIS PLAN INCORPORATE ANY CHANGES TO THE MAIN SANCTUARY?
Currently, absent a proper social hall, the main sanctuary is used for multiple purposes and is being constantly reconfigured. This project will allow us to pursue a more permanent arrangement for the main sanctuary, such as fixed pews, bima and mechitzah, resulting in an even more beautiful and appropriate davening space for our congregation.
At the present time the main sanctuary is large enough to accommodate our membership on a typical shabbos, as well as the projected increase in membership for the foreseeable future. We hope to be blessed with continued growth and can revisit a sanctuary expansion as a part of any future construction phase if needed. There are many approaches to a future construction phase that would be compatible with the project we are currently pursuing.
WILL THE ORIGINAL HOUSE BASEMENT BE RENOVATED?
The original house basement does not meet building code requirements for public assembly, and cannot feasibly be made to meet those requirements at present. It must therefore remain unfinished space.
HOW MUCH DISRUPTION WILL THERE BE DURING CONSTRUCTION?
There necessarily will be some disruption, since part of the existing beit midrash will be demolished as part of construction. We will work with the builder to craft a construction plan that minimizes the inconvenience to our membership. We will also rent space from Shaaray Shalom as needed.
I'D LIKE TO PLEDGE OR DONATE RIGHT NOW, WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
If you are ready to make your pledge, the building committee will be happy to discuss specific arrangements with you. Please contact the committee at building@ecdp.info.
If you wish to make a donation today, please visit the "donate" tab at the top of this site.
We have established various giving levels. However, any amount you can contribute is most welcome, extremely helpful and greatly appreciated.
ARE DONATIONS TO THE BUILDING CAMPAIGN TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
Yes. All donations are fully tax deductible and receipts will be provided.