The Remodeling of the Old Temple Building
Status Report
After many years of planning and preparation, the contract for the remodeling of the old temple building was finally signed on January 19, 2008. In order to allow the construction to progress smoothly and finish on time, it is necessary to move all the furniture and miscellaneous objects out of the old 2-story building before construction
Under the supervision of the Master and Abbess, the temple staff and volunteers worked together with high degree of cooperative team spirit to complete the move in 10 days.
On January 30, 2008 at 7:00 a.m., the Master led a “Cleansing ceremony” with all temple staff, and then turned over the building to the contractor at 8:00 a.m. for construction.
Upon receiving control of the building, the contractor began its work immediately. Many work tasks are underway concurrently as planned, such as clearing / removing of walls, bathroom remodeling, new kitchen, bedroom partition walls, underground water lines, electric lines, etc. The Master communicates closely with project engineering team to assure smooth progress of the project.
In mid-February, it was discovered that the HVAC control system design has issues that would affect future operation. The temple held a series of emergency meetings attended by Abbess Master Tien Inn, Master Tien Yung, Architect Steve Yang, Engineer Dennis Jang, Project Manager Stone Shih, HVAC Engineer Daniel Yu, along with two volunteers of the temple, David He and Chan Chun Zier. The 8-person met to discuss the issues, evaluate alternatives, and arrive at joint agreement and decisions. The revised design will incorporate manual switch controls that accommodate the operational needs in the future.
The old temple building was built 20 years ago. The remodeling construction exposed many areas where structures have been severely deteriorated. On March 7, 2008, under the supervision of Master and Abbot, the Structure Engineer inspected the exterior columns and found extensive damages due to water and termite. It was determined that the damaged columns have affected the safety of the building and they will have to be repaired or replaced. In addition, it is found that the guard on the second floor exterior hallway has deteriorated badly and the spacing of the vertical wood bars does not meet current code requirement. It is determined that the guard on the second floor needs to be replaced.
As a result of the above, the contract with the contractor has to be amended to include the additional work and cost. The increase in cost is rather substantial. The Avatamsaka Buddhist Lotus Society would appreciate the continuing kind financial support from all Buddhists and worshipers. Please help with whatever amount you can. Your good deed will enable the temple to complete the project, which will enhance the services to all worshipers coming to the temple in the future. Thank you in advance for your support.