St. Adalbert's Parish to reinforce exterior with help from historic preservation grant

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- One of the most iconic buildings in South Bend is set to receive a structural boost.

The Parish has received a $250,000 matching grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation in order to help kickstart a multi-year renovation project.

The first phase of reconstruction focuses on repairing the exterior of the building, with the roof being the primary rebuilding effort. 

St. Adalbert's is one of just 16 parishes chosen throughout the country for the grant and was honored in part because of its historical significance and role within the community.

The church is a primarily Hispanic-serving congregation, and supports South Bend's west side with food assistance, formal education and more. 

From an economic standpoint, the parish has a huge impact on the area, typically generating $2.7 million per year. 

Once the exterior of the building is upgraded, the church plans to move repairs to the inside, adding extra bathrooms, handicap accessible entrances and more. 

Congregation leaders hope to have a majority of the renovations complete by 2026, the 100th anniversary of the church.