Trinity Church Closes For 2 Year Renovation

FINANCIAL DISTRICT, NY — The main building of the historic Trinity Church will close for two years starting Monday to allow for a massive renovation.

The church, at 75 Broadway, has served the Lower Manhattan community since 1698. The current building was consecrated in 1846, according to Trinity Church. The renovations will the be the first major upgrade that it's had in 70 years.

Church officials announced the "historic rejuvenation" on Monday. They said most church services would be relocated to the nearby St. Paul's Chapel and that Trinity's historic graveyard will remain open during the renovations. Alexander Hamilton, Eliza Hamilton and other icons of the American Revolution are buried at the graveyard, which has become a popular tourist destination thanks to the success of the Broadway musical "Hamilton."

The two-year renovation process will cost $98.6 million. The upgrades will add an additional 140 seats to the church, as well as make its entrances and interior compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"Rejuvenating Trinity Church is part of our mission to provide a spiritual home for lower Manhattan – our parishioners, neighbors, workers, and visitors," Rev. Dr. William Lupfer said. "As a vibrant, diverse, and growing congregation, we are excited to undertake this work so that future generations also can cherish this remarkable church."

The upgrades will also include the installation of gender-neutral bathrooms in the building.

Image credit: Courtesy of Trinity Church