A funding pledge worth $5 million for the Assumption Church restoration project in Windsor has expired because the matching requirement was not met.
Local philanthropist Al Quesnel advised the church that the funds have instead been redirected to other worthy projects in the community.
So far, the 174-year-old church has received pledges that total $2,715,000.
Lawyer Paul Mullins says the development is disappointing for the fundraising program, but the church remains confident in the success of the restoration.
All work on Phase 1 of the project is proceeding on schedule and under budget.
The original budget approved was $2,267,000. The budget was reduced to $1,593,000 as a result of the tendered contract awarded to Pupatello & Sons.
The Phase 1 work includes a new copper roof, asbestos remediation, foundation repairs and a new hot water heating system.
Phase 2 will involve ceiling plaster consolidation and paint restoration and the budget is estimated at $3,450,000.
Work is planned to begin in the spring of 2020, depending on funding. Mullins, who is spearheading the project, says they need an additional $2,327,000 to complete the work.
On Monday, All Saints Anglican Church bought a $250 copper shingle as part of the fundraising campaign for Assumption.
Assumption church has been unoccupied for five years and is 10 years removed from the first fundraising campaign to restore the historic west-end building.
