Restoration in Progress: Education Wing Updates (October 16 – November 5)

We’re excited to share that Central is beginning Phase 1 of our Restoration Project — a key step post the flooding Central experienced this summer and an even more pertinent step in caring for our historic building and preparing it for future generations.

From October 16 through November 5, the Education Wing will be temporarily closed for asbestos abatement and construction work. This process ensures the long-term safety, accessibility, and integrity of our space — setting the foundation for continued ministry, community programming, and growth.

What you can expect:

October 15-19: Zolman, our general contractor, will move everything out of the education wing rooms and into other areas of the church. Expect to see lots of unexpected items in the Gathering Space, etc., but rest assured that there will be accessible aisles for you to make your way around the building.

October 20-31: asbestos abatement will take place and the entire education wing (all three floors) will be safely and completely sealed off. While this work is happening, the rest of the church will remain open, including the sanctuary, chapel, and fellowship hall. Classes and meetings will continue as usual, just relocated. Class leaders and meeting chairs will communicate new locations, and we will also clearly post locations on monitors and signs. The back entrance will be closed throughout this time, but the parking lot will be open as usual and the Cass Street entrance will be open for all services and activities. Because our church offices are in the education wing, church office and program staff will be working remotely, so email will be the best way to get in touch.

Through November 5: Furniture and equipment will be gradually moved back in, allowing us to begin using rooms in the education wing as our restoration continues.

During this time please be advised of the following:

• Abatement will only be happening in the Education Wing. The Abatement Phase occurs October 20 - October 31, includes Sunday, October 26. Access to all other parts of the building, including the Sanctuary, will be available.
• You may only enter the building on the Cass St. side of our campus. Parking will still be available off the alley in our parking lot from Cass St. or Union St. That said, if you park there, you will need to enter from the Cass St. entrance.

• 🚧 All offices and classrooms in the Education Wing will be closed and unavailable through at least November 5 unless otherwise specified by Central trustees, staff, or program leadership. As any changes to this schedule emerge, we will update you via email blast.

• Our staff will be working remotely during this phase. Please reach out to them via email with any inquiries.
• Central Community Outreach will remain open to guests during this process for breakfast M-F and lunch on Thursdays.

• 🗓️ Please watch for posted signage throughout the building for temporary room changes and relocation notices for programs, classes, and events.

• 💻 You can always find the most up-to-date information at:

  • Events: tccentralumc.org/events

  • Construction Updates: tccentralumc.org/construction-updates

If you have questions or need help finding where something has moved, please reach out via email to office@tccentralumc.org.

We know this phase may cause a few temporary disruptions, and we deeply appreciate your patience and flexibility. This is an exciting moment in Central’s journey — one that will help us create a more welcoming, accessible, and safe space for all.

🧱 Thank you for your prayers, your grace, and your continued support as we rebuild a brighter future together at Central. ❤️