Planning for the Next Century
Wade Myrabo, P.E.
For nearly a century, Saints Cyril & Methodius Church has served as an important gathering place for worship, fellowship, and community outreach. To help plan for the future of both the active church and its unoccupied rectory, WPE completed a comprehensive facility condition assessment focused on identifying immediate concerns, long-term maintenance needs, and capital improvement priorities.
The assessment evaluated structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life-safety, and accessibility conditions throughout both buildings. As is common with facilities of this age, many systems continue to function but are showing signs of deterioration and are approaching the end of their useful service life.
WPE identified several critical repairs necessary to improve safety, reliability, and code compliance. Key recommendations included replacing obsolete electrical equipment, addressing remaining knob-and-tube wiring, installing modern fire alarm systems, improving emergency egress lighting, modernizing the elevator, and correcting life-safety deficiencies.
Mechanical evaluations revealed aging systems in both buildings. The church’s hydronic heating system remains operational but includes components nearing the end of their expected life. In the rectory, the steam boiler had experienced a catastrophic failure and was awaiting replacement. Aging piping systems, missing insulation, and ventilation equipment in need of evaluation further highlighted the need for future investment.
The project also identified opportunities for planned improvements beyond immediate repairs. Recommendations included plumbing upgrades, window replacement, building envelope improvements, ADA accessibility enhancements, and restoration of historic finishes. Energy-efficiency measures, such as LED lighting upgrades and improved system controls, were also considered to help reduce operating costs while improving occupant comfort.
A unique aspect of the project was the church basement’s role as home to the Loaves and Fishes soup kitchen. The assessment found the commercial kitchen’s core infrastructure, including plumbing systems, grease management equipment, and hood fire protection systems, to be generally functional and capable of supporting continued community service.
By documenting existing conditions, prioritizing repairs, and developing associated cost estimates, WPE provided church leadership with a practical roadmap for future investments. The assessment equips stakeholders to make informed decisions that balance preservation, safety, accessibility, and stewardship, helping ensure this historic community landmark can continue serving future generations.
Wade Myrabo, P.E., Mechanical Engineer, Casper
Wade Myrabo is a Professional Mechanical Engineer supporting our Casper office, with over 35 years of experience in project management, mechanical system design, and QA/QC services. He was the lead Mechanical Engineer on the assessment and recommendations for this project.
