Capital restorations for Temple Emanu-El included reconstruction of all of the building’s major systems, state-of-the-art fire alarm and sprinkler, recladding of the exterior walls and roof, and complete accessibility for the site and building.

The building is a 50-year-old, 30,000 sf structure which houses an 800-person sanctuary and Hebrew school for over 200. The original tar-and-gravel roof was removed, hazardous material abated, and a new membrane roof installed. Wood siding and single-glazed windows were replaced with insulation, metal siding and 1” insulating aluminum windows. The original cooling tower was replaced with a set of air-cooled condensers to supply chilled water for air conditioning. HVAC controls were upgraded and hew heating and cooling installed for the Social Hall, Bimah and offices.

Accessible modifications included main entry ramp, railing modification and an elevator to serve the school entrance. In addition, the basement had severe leakage problems. This condition was solved through installation of an underdrain system, a topping slab, new sump pumps and drainage board along perimeter walls.