All along in our building design process the Building Engagement Task Force (BETF) has refined with our architect, Elizabeth, plans for a new fellowship hall and other campus improvements. A few weeks ago, she submitted her latest drawings to the contractor and requested cost estimates to see where we stand. She was optimistic that they would come in close to the $3.mm budget that we have raised.
On Wednesday, August 26, the BETF received the first concrete cost figures from our contractor, Nunn. It came in at $4.8million, which is obviously a significant increase over the architect’s estimate of $3.3 million. This was a surprise and very concerning for the members of the BETF. We expect others may have similar reactions. The degree of difference from initial estimate to better informed actual numbers is now the prime area for investigating and determining what options exist going forward.
As we deal with the new estimate, we recognize that the contractor had to make a number of assumptions. There is still opportunity for further clarification and for making modifications that should reduce costs. We also are aware that this is a very difficult time in the construction field as the effects of tariffs and inflation swing wildly and have affected the cost projections.
The BETF is actively diving into the details of the new estimate. We are working closely with Nunn and our architect Elizabeth through a rigorous value engineering review process that may take several weeks. Our clear intent is to find realistic ways to bring those costs significantly down. Further conversations between the team, builder and architect and within the congregation will continue as we pursue actions and choices available to us. We, along with the Board, want to reiterate that we will only contract to build what we can afford and that meets the general needs and aesthetics identified by the congregation.
As always, all BETF members (Tom Miller, Allison Andersen, Sherrod Beall, Mary Ocken, Barbara Hahn, and Deborah Lycan) are eager to hear questions and comments either in person or by clicking on the Questions or Comments button to the left of this post.