As the holiday season approaches, the renovations at our main shelter building at 39 Boylston Street in Boston are in full swing! Walking through the building, you can see and feel the transformation taking place around every corner. From major structural updates to behind-the-scenes efforts, progress is everywhere.
Let’s dive into the latest updates and see how the building is coming to life!
Elevators: Progress You Can See
The elevator upgrades are a cornerstone of our renovations, and the progress is unmistakable:
- The Shaft: From the basement to the sixth floor, the new elevator shafts have taken shape, revealing the inner workings of the building. Soon, iron and steel will be brought in to construct the shafts’ structural framework.
- Next Step Floors (8–10): Preparations for elevator shaft construction continue on the upper floors. This involves moving mechanical equipment and reworking access points. A big shoutout to our Next Step residents for their patience and flexibility during this phase!
- Passenger Elevators: Work on passenger elevator #2 remains on schedule for a January completion. Once it reopens, work will begin on elevator #1 to keep things moving forward.
Ground Floor: New Foundations, New Vision
The ground floor is undergoing a dramatic transformation:
- Lobby Ceiling: The lobby now features a brand-new ceiling! The front section, made of metal, supports the expanded mezzanine deck, which will soon house our new lounge area. The center section, made of wood, is temporary and allows the construction team to complete work on the permanent flooring.
- Kitchen Floor: Above the atrium, a new floor has been installed in preparation for the kitchen. The old skylight roof is being dismantled, with a new roof to follow in the coming weeks.
- Concrete Flooring: Once the metal floors are in place, they’ll be covered with concrete to create our new permanent flooring. It’s a fascinating process—imagine watching liquid concrete transform into a solid foundation right before our eyes!
First Floor: Framing the Future
Formerly the mezzanine, the first floor is taking shape with ongoing framing, plumbing, and wiring. Each new element brings us closer to realizing our vision for the space.
These renovations are more than just structural updates; they’re the foundation for a brighter, better future for our community.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting journey together!
