Wednesday, Dec 4, 2019
Dear Rider Community,
I'm excited to share additional details about the renovations plans for Gill Chapel. As announced last month, the renovations will create a new performing and rehearsal space for students, as well as 13 new large and small practice rooms, an expanded lobby and worship spaces.
The floor plans have been approved, and the University is on schedule with applications for permits and land use approvals that align with the renovation timeline. We anticipate having approvals for interior renovations so that we can begin work in February.
The floor plans depict the layout of the practice rooms, the teaching, support and worship spaces, and more. The renovations are designed to create a flexible space in the main chapel area that will be able to accommodate full Westminster Symphonic Choir rehearsals and performances by smaller ensembles, as well as some performances and rehearsals by musical theatre, theatre and dance students.
I'm also excited to share new renderings of Gill's exterior that reflect a change the Facilities Working Group considered and accepted since we shared the initial renderings in October. The planned addition has been moved from the south-facing side of the building to the north-facing side. The Working Group determined that the change will better accommodate the overall construction needs, as well as handicap parking, with no other substantive changes to the overall plan.
Construction on Gill Chapel is expected to begin in February 2020 and be completed by the following September.
I'm pleased with the exceptional progress the Campus Transition Working Groups continue to make and remain grateful to all the individuals who are working so hard to ensure that the needs of Westminster Choir College students, faculty and staff will continue to be met in Lawrenceville next fall.
Sincerely,
DonnaJean Fredeen, Ph.D
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs