AASR Valley of Chicago To Begin Construction

The Scottish Rite Valley of Chicago is at last moving forward with construction of its new headquarters. A story from today's REJournals.com reports that a construction manager and general contractor have been hired for the long-planned project. From Leopardo begins work on Scottish Rite headquarters:

The new two-story Scottish Rite – Valley of Chicago, located at the corner of Lake Street and Medinah Road in Bloomingdale, will feature a museum and library, traditional lodge hall, kitchen facilities, dining room for 290 people, bar and game room, grand hall, administrative offices, and theater with seating for 270.

“The history of the Scottish Rite will be evident in the interior by integrating symbology, patterns, artwork, and historic items from the former Scottish Rite Cathedral on North Dearborn Street in Chicago,” said Gregory Klemm, Valley of Chicago executive secretary and chief operating officer.

Designed to tell the story of Freemasonry’s symbolic origins through the future of society, the interior and exterior will feature traditional Masonic structures executed in a timeless and contemporary composition that incorporates traditional masonry materials like stone and brick as well as modern construction systems like precast concrete. The heavily wooded 16-acre site will be nicely landscaped for stunning views, and include a parking lot to accommodate approximately 190 vehicles.

An entry from 2009 with more renderings. Construction is projected to be complete by the end of 2011.