WHEELCHAIR LIFT CONSTRUCTION

We’re giving the Grange Hall a lift!  A platform/wheelchair lift, to be precise.    It will allow Grange Hall users to reach the stage and the Lower Level from the main floor, even if stairs are hard for them to navigate.

“Project Uplift” starts in early January.   Carpentry contractor Stan Carlson will be building a “hoistway” for the lift.   We will also have electricians from ARJ Electric doing wiring.   The suppliers/installers from Accessibility Systems will deliver and install the lift, later in January, followed by final construction, trim work, painting, etc.

While Stan is working, on weekdays from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it will be disruptive for Grange Hall users, with noise and dust likely.   Stan will leave the site safe, with barricades around the construction area when he leaves for the day, so evening users should not have problems.   The lift will be located between the ADA entrance foyer and the stage on the Main Level, and directly below that area on the Lower Level.

In addition, there will be construction of a fire-rated wall and new double doors between the Main Hall and the Old Entrance foyer.  Stan expects to be working on that part of the project, plus some railing changes on the Old Entrance porch for the last couple of weeks of February.

We will not be scheduling any new rentals during the construction period–Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM through March 3rd.

We will have a celebration on Sunday, March 5th to officially “Open” the lift, with fresh-baked cookies, ribbon cutting, ceremonial “first rides”, info tables from Grange Hall users and other local organizations, and a Community Dance, with live music by the VT Fiddle Orchestra, and dances for all ages called by Luke Donforth!   Please join us, 2:00 to 5:00 PM on March 5!