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June 2008 Issue
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to Feature Articles
Cathedral Square Update
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The
Cathedral Square project has moved from vision to a
reality in just a few months. Move-in for the diocesan
offices and employees, currently housed in the St. Joseph
Center and other locations throughout Grand Rapids,
is set for mid-July. |
Construction on Cathedral Square, in particular
the diocesan pastoral center, begun in September 2007, has
progressed quickly. St. Mary's Health Care, which is leasing
the first level of the facility for its pharmacy, will take
occupancy in June.
The Pastoral Center was designed with Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification as
a primary objective, explained Pete Michell, project manager
for Rockford Construction Company, Inc. "The submittal process
for LEED certification is in the works," said Michell, adding
that in order to achieve basic certification, the building
must meet certain criteria established by the U.S. Green Building
Council.
The Diocesan Pastoral Center meets standards
such as use of an existing building for construction; employment
of low VOC paints and sealants to create a healthier work
environment; a retention tank which recycles rainwater into
irrigation; and use of a green rooftop over the main center
section of the building that is not only aesthetically pleasing,
but also provides insulation. Completed in April, the two-level
parking deck just west of the new Pastoral Center, accommodates
more than 200 vehicles.
Catholic Central High School seniors utilized
the upper deck prior to the end of the '08 school year. The
$22 million funding plan for Cathedral Square continues to
generate positive results. Donations received during the advance
commitment phase of the campaign, coupled with the sale of
the Burton Street property, have reached the $12 million mark.
Over the last several months, Bishop Walter
Hurley and members of the Cathedral Square leadership team
have met with parishioners and friends of the diocese, sharing
the vision for the Cathedral Square project. The development
campaign will expand to include opportunities for parish involvement
this fall. Non-interest-bearing bonds were secured in advance
of the campaign to enable construction of the project to begin.
Anchored by the Cathedral of Saint Andrew,
Cathedral Square serves as the center of the diocesan church.
It brings together in one centralized location the administrative
offices for diocesan services and ministries allowing for
greater collaboration with and more expedient delivery of
services to our parishes and the broader community.
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