ECC Construction Update 11.30.2025

Updates from the Etna Center for Community

Weeks of November 1 - November 30, 2025

Above. New sheets of gypsum board being loaded through a rear Third Floor window.

At the end of November 2025, the scaffolding at the rear of the building was taken down, revealing the original masonry façade: a fully restored wall from the 1870s. By Thanksgiving, the walls of the rear addition had risen, allowing us to begin to experience the scale of the future community room.

Above. Allison Sachs, Michael Volpatt, and Sara Chodkowski reviewing cabinet samples.

On a bi-weekly basis, Owner–Architect–Contractor (OAC) meetings outline the progress from the previous two weeks and look ahead to the upcoming work. Volpatt’s PM Allison Sachs, Project Executive Michael Volpatt, and Superintendent Ken Betts run the meetings and provide updates on site safety, progress, logistical issues, key decisions, and any financial updates. As work progresses, ECO's team reviews recommendations and supports finish selections in coordination with the architectural team, GBBN.

Above. Megan Tuñón and Bridget Barrett tour site progress.

The remediation company, Triton, returned to the site for roof ASM removal and remediation. Multiple layers of ASM roofing had to be removed, inspected, and disposed of in accordance with Allegheny County Health Department requirements. Once the ASM was removed, the original roof decking was revealed. The decking was extremely weathered and only sufficient to serve as a base for new OSB sheathing. To protect the interior from rain and snow during this period, a temporary tarp was installed, which presented its own challenges.

Roof remediation and deck replacement. Photos by Todd Cioppa and Robert Tuñón.

1. New OSB roof sheathing installation in progress.

2-3. Roof ASM removal and remediation in progress.

4-6. Temporary tarp.

7. Original roof decking from below.

In August 2025, it was discovered that the original front façade brick had a paint coating containing ~30% lead. This meant there was no safe way to remove the lead or paint using abrasive or chemical methods. Options included encapsulating the lead with a new coating—which would require ongoing maintenance—or removing the outer wythe of brick. Given the deterioration of the brick in many locations, the team determined the best outcome was to remove the outer wythe and replace it with new brick. This work was completed in November, leaving two original brick wythes intact and ready to receive the new exterior wythe.

Photo series. Removal of outer wythe of brick in progress.

While the rear masonry restoration was underway, flashing and weeps were installed, new openings were cut, arches were rebuilt or repaired, mortar joints were repointed, and the brick was cleaned.

Photo series. Restoration of the rear masonry facade in progress.

Once the rear scaffolding was removed, new scaffolding was erected at the sides to construct the new addition’s CMU side walls. Masons laid block up to 14' high on both sides.

Construction of the rear addition CMU walls in progress. Photos by Robert Tuñón and Ken Betts.

On the interior, metal framing was installed slightly off the existing masonry walls. This furring wall conceals electrical and plumbing vertical distribution and will hold insulation. Mechanical ductwork was also installed within the existing building portion of the library.

First Floor progress through November 2025.

1-3. Conduit, chases, and light gauge metal framing installations in progress.

4-6. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installations in progress.

On the Second and Third Floors, gypsum board was attached and taped as MEP rough-ins continued. To balance the two sides of the building, two new openings were cut into the rear façade to give each apartment six windows.

Second Floor progress through November 2025.

1. Electrical and metal framing installation in progress.

2-3. New window openings and lintels at rear facade.

4. Rockwool installation for exterior walls.

Mechanical units were installed above the bathroom ceilings, with ductwork routed efficiently through mostly concealed pathways.

Third Floor progress through November 2025.

1-2. Roof truss repair, and wall framing in progress..

3. New window openings at rear facade.

4-6. Mechanical unit and ductwork installations in progress.

At the close of the month, Application for Payment No. 8 was executed for $433,400.00. No new change orders were approved. As of November 30th, 47% of the work had been completed and stored to date, with a total value of $2,138,602.00 and a remaining balance of $2,435,019.00.

Future work anticipated:

• Advancement of front masonry restoration.

• Completion of the roof truss repairs.

• Continuation of interior framing and mechanical-electrical-plumbing rough-ins.

Photo credits: Robert Tuñón unless otherwise noted.