Building Project - Capital Campaign Update
The Building Committee met with our general contractor, Sampson Construction, on March 11 and reported to the Ministry Operations Board on March 24. During these meetings, Sampson provided detailed cost estimates for site work, renovation, and new construction, organized by subcontractor categories, along with a more realistic project timeline. This gives us data to help inform our planning and decision-making.
Based on this updated information, it is clear that construction cannot begin this summer as previously anticipated. Significant preparatory work must be completed before replacement of the 1929 building can begin. This includes separating existing structures, relocating utilities and electrical infrastructure, and carefully planning work within a timeline that ensures the safety of our students and staff. The project also requires room-by-room analysis, detailed construction drawings, material sourcing, and subcontractor engagement.
The early master plan estimates placed the cost of Phase 1 at approximately $12.6 million. After reviewing the concept drawings, additional input was received from faculty and staff in order to make the new and renovated spaces more fitting for ministry needs. This input moved the architects to include a new cafeteria and student/youth commons. Though the Building Committee worked to reduce the cost of Phase 1, the addition of these spaces, along with the contractor’s detailed estimates—which exceed the original square foot estimate of $300 per square foot—point to a projected cost that is very likely higher than $12.6 million.
Therefore, there is a gap at the present time between the pledges and gifts of $9 million and the projected cost of Phase 1. As we have shared throughout this journey, several potential paths forward were anticipated once preliminary contractor estimates became available. These included moving forward this summer with additional financing, delaying the timeline to strengthen financial support, reducing the project scope, or conducting a second phase of fundraising.
After comprehensive review of all updated information, the soonest possible start date for beginning major construction is no earlier than March 2027. This revised timeline allows us to work with more reliable 2027–2028 pricing and ensures that we are moving forward with clarity, care, and confidence while continuing to refine the plan and build the financial foundation needed for this project.
We are deeply grateful that campaign pledges and gifts already total just over $9 million—a remarkable expression of generosity and commitment. While this updated cost and construction planning extends the timeline, it also provides an opportunity for our congregation to build further momentum and strengthen the financial foundation necessary to support both this building project and the ongoing ministry of St. John.
As has been previously shared with the congregation, there will be no groundbreaking or commencement of Phase 1 until the congregation is formally called together for a Voting Assembly. At that time, members will be asked to review the finalized plans, financial readiness, and project scope. After the review of these items, the Voting Assembly will determine whether to proceed with construction. This ensures that the decision to move forward reflects the collective discernment, unity, and support of the congregation.
As we move forward, we invite you into the next phase of this journey. We ask that you:
- Pray for continued wisdom, unity, and discernment in the planning process;
- Continue to support the ongoing ministry of St. John through regular offerings;
- Review your current campaign commitment and consider extending your three-year pledge to a four or five-year commitment. This extension of your commitment offers our building project greater financial steadiness and flexibility as we prepare for construction.
We remain confident in the vision God has placed before us and trust that He will continue to guide and provide as we take these next steps together.
For questions, feedback, or to learn more about how you can support this effort, we encourage you to reach out to members of the Building Committee or our Capital Campaign General Chairs. They would welcome the opportunity to connect, provide additional information, and walk alongside you as we continue forward together.
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