In 2019, St. Olave’s struck a committee to explore how to make our building accessible to everyone. All three entrances are at ground level, going up several stairs into the nave or down several stairs to the Parish Hall. There has been a chairlift at the west entrance since approximately 2010. In 2018 it became inoperable and seemingly irreparable. The committee was tasked with determining if an elevator was feasible. The pandemic slowed the pace of the work somewhat, but by 2023, it was ready to share its findings.
Summary of presentation made at Vestry, February 2023.
Additional Information based on feedback:
- What is sacred?
- Options F and A – Wardens’ Vestry/Hunger Patrol Room and Church office/Caretaker’s Office
- Option D – Rector’s Office/Lower Level Bathroom
- Option C – Chapel/Lower Level Bathroom
Accessibility Update June 1, 2023
Accessibility Update July 4, 2023
After further consultation with architects and other experts, and based on feedback from parishioners, the committee determined two things:
- The elevator would need to be installed within an addition, as opposed to the existing footprint of the building.
- The addition would be best suited to the Windermere side of the building, on the south side of the main door.
A Special Vestry meeting was held in April 2024 to share the findings with the parish and seek approval of this concept, as well as approval on a potential budget of $700,000. This motion was approved, followed by approval from the Diocese.
Accessibility Update June 5, 2024
The Committee continued to meet and by fall 2024, it began the competitive process to hire an architect who would provide conceptual drawings and cost estimates. Local architecture firm Lynch + Comisso was selected from five firms. We are working with them on their design concept. This will be shared with the parish for feedback in the fall of 2025.