The $4.2-million renovation and partial rebuild of the Alliance Church is aiming for a completion date at the end of August and a tentative Labour Day weekend opening.
The facility will offer a number of spaces for community rental and use.
The church building committee opened the doors to the facility on Sunday afternoon for a sneak peak.
“There will be ever so many more little children, who will have access to training and be able to develop leadership skills,” said congregation member Lily Umbach, adding that the “church is a vibrant community.”
Kevin Halkyard with the building committee said once complete, the church will be “the envy of the RancheHouse” with multiple rooms available for community space rentals – birthday parties, children’s programming, non-profit gatherings and AGMs, performing arts and concerts and weddings.
“We saw a big need in the community … what better way for a church to get involved?” said Halkyard.
Construction began roughly six months ago and the committee felt it was time to open the doors and let curious passersby and congregation members satisfy their curiosity and take a look at what is shaping up to be a spacious and brightly-lit facility.
Larry Fournier, from NVR Construction, said the new facility has maintained the same footprint but the west side required a rebuild from the foundation up, a new “much needed sprinkler system,” electrical system and water line were also put it. There will also be an elevator lift added for better accessibility.
According to a church pamphlet, there has been a 325 per cent increase in use by community groups over the last few years.
Its progress report cites framing is at 98 per cent completion and roofing at 90 per cent completion. Looking ahead over the next month, interior components will include drywall and completion of rough-ins. In addition to exterior finishings, the build of sidewalks and parking lot repairs are also upcoming.
The first service held at the Alliance Church took place on Feb. 4, 1979 and is located at 902 Glenbow Drive.
The shortfall for the renovation is at $498,050. Contact cochranealliance.com to learn more or find out ways to donate.
