A Groundbreaking Ceremony Kicks Off the Next Phase in The Basilica School of Saint Mary’s Campus Renovation/Expansion Project

The Basilica School of Saint Mary held a groundbreaking ceremony today as Construction Phase II commences soon as part of the School’s campus renovation and expansion project.

Those who were present included Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica; Basilica School Principal Dan Cinalli; Father David Dufresne, a Parochial Vicar at the Basilica; HESS construction leaders; Home and School Association leaders; Mary Lead Us Campaign leaders and donors; and Basilica school children, staff and teachers.

The next phase of the construction will include demolition of areas in both Stephen’s Hall and the Main Building. There will be construction of the new structure joining Stephen’s Hall and the Main Building; construction/installation of the exterior veneer/windows of the new structure; and site clearing for a new playground and parking lot areas.

So far, more than $7.5-million has been received in sacrificial gifts and pledges from more than 600 parishioner, School and alumni families. The Diocese of Arlington has approved a $2-million loan. The Basilica of Saint Mary has invested $2 million. Construction costs will run around $13.7 million, so a $2.2-million construction gap remains.

The Basilica held an in-pew Mary Lead Us Commitment Weekend this past weekend to solicit the help of parishioners to bridge the construction gap. Meanwhile, an Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Challenge has resulted in 37 leading Parishioners and School Families contributing $1.5-million to inspire new gifts to the campaign. All new and renewed gifts at the $10,000-and-above level will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

To learn more or to donate, please click here.

To listen to an audio recording of the ceremony, click below:

To see photos from the ceremony, please click below: