In January, construction work began on the Retrofit Project at Old Mission Santa Inés. To retrofit something means to add a component or accessory that was not there when something was built. For Old Mission Santa Inés, the component missing from the original construction in the early 1800’s was a method to securely join the roof to the adobe walls so that the roof would not collapse during a seismic event or earthquake. Using current engineering and technology, the Retrofit Project addresses this issue to make the roof and walls a strong structural unit that will withstand seismic events.
The Retrofit Project construction work involves bolting 4-foot steel rods that support “L” shaped steel plates in the tops of the original adobe walls at the point where the roof and walls meet. The workers are working in very tight quarters as shown in this photo.
Once all the "L" shaped steel plates are in place steel beams will be placed on top. The beams will run east to west along the tops of the north and south walls. Several beams will run north to south, connecting the two longer walls together to form a steel cage.
This steel cage will prevent the walls from moving apart or moving towards each other in an earthquake or other seismic event. The roof will remain supported and will not fall into the church.
During construction, much care is being taken to ensure protection for the walls and floor inside the church. Walls and floors have been covered, and precious artwork has been securely stored. The photo to the right shows Humberto Figueroa, Maintenance and Facilities Director, with a sample 4-foot bolt, L- steel plate, and various lifts used for this project. Note also how the walls and floors are covered.
Preliminary engineering and fundraising work began on the Retrofit Project over 3 years ago. We have had great support from the community and the parish. Construction work that began in January is expected to be completed sometime this summer. In the interim, Masses continue to be celebrated in our temporary church in the Parish Hall.
We wish to thank everyone who has supported and continues to support this much needed safety work at Old Mission Santa Inés.
Below are some additional photos from this project.
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