As anyone who’s ever done renovations knows, what’s underneath the surface can include any number of surprises. While the future Ellwood House Extension may not look much like a building site yet, the foundational work going on beneath the ground is well on its way.

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The Extension project was funded in part to include water, sewer and gas line work that would improve services to the whole of the St. Thomas property. Since the summer, that work has consumed many hours and included much careful activity. Permits to cut into pavement took longer than expected, and rainy days made digging impossible. Accessing services required a smaller-than-planned excavator that could clear soil and rocks from between the many types of pipes and wiring that connect Ellwood House, St. Thomas church and Braeside House. 

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Friends, neighbours and supporters can be reassured the “above ground” work will begin soon and continue through the winter months. As soon as firm dates for landmark work – crane installation, foundation digging and pouring – are made available by the project’s construction teams, they will be passed along. 

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The project is on schedule and on budget and, for that, we thank all those involved at the City, our architect, our contractors and our funders.