By The Skanner News | The Skanner News Published: 15 August 2016 The Rev. LeRoy Haynes and community members of Allen Temple hope to rebuild the fire damaged church and to rebuild stronger than ever before.
Church leaders hosted a groundbreaking ceremony Saturday, August 13, outside the sanctuary at 4236 NE 8th Avenue. Architectural plans for the renovation were on hand for community members to see.
Click through the slideshow to see pictures from the groundbreaking. Most photos by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography:
Allen Temple Groundbreaking
Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Multnomah County Commissioner Loretta Smith speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Nancy Hales speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Rev. LeRoy Haynes holds up a shovel at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Rev. LeRoy Haines stands by architectural drawings of the new Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Bernie Foster.
Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Multnomah County Commissioner Loretta Smith speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Nancy Hales speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Rev. LeRoy Haynes holds up a shovel at the groundbreaking ceremony for Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Tracey Stadamire Un-4-Gettable Photography.
Rev. LeRoy Haines stands by architectural drawings of the new Allen Temple, August 13, 2016. Photo by Bernie Foster.
The historic 9,500 square foot church building was damaged by a double fire on Feb. 7, 2015. Two electrical fires caused over $300,000 of damage, including severe damage to the roof.
Costs to rebuild the structure will be covered by building insurance, but the building is also in need of accessibility upgrades that are not covered. Proposed upgrades include:
- Higher standard ADA requirements, such as an elevator chair.
- Better lighting and signage in outside areas.
- Energy Star efficient appliances.
- Energy-efficient insulation for exterior walls.
- Child daycare center to be operated by a local business owner.
The renovations include an upgrade to home next door to the temple that is owned by Allen Temple CME membership. This home is currently unusable due to poor condition. The renovations would allow the space to provide more services to the community.
MLK Breakfast
