November 18, 2021
At its last meeting, the facilities action team interviewed three firms from across Louisiana that have worked locally, nationally and even internationally to lead the renovation of the Kleinert Ave. campus. The facilities action team was looking for a firm that will think big and dream big, with a good personality and that understands what we are trying to accomplish.
The team has selected RHH Architects as the primary architect and design firm. This creative and innovative team designed the Knock Knock Museum, The Advocate’s new administration building, the LSU Field House, and the Baton Rouge Magnet High remodel. RHH Architects will work side-by-side with a consultant who has experience building synagogues/sanctuaries. The team will begin the interviews to find that consultant soon.
We will keep you updated on opportunities to provide your input and ideas. The facilities action team let RHH Architects know that the ideal deadline to complete renovations at Kleinert is the High Holy Days 5784 / 2023.
November 11, 2021
Last week, the UJCBR Board voted on the physical location of our new congregational home. We are excited to announce that the board has voted that the new home of UJCBR will be at the Kleinert Avenue location currently housing Congregation B’nai Israel.
The Joint Synagogue Exploratory Committee (JSEC) task force, the facilities action team and the board considered three options: a new facility, locating the new campus at the Jefferson Hwy. location or locating the new home at Kleinert Ave. The board sent an email Nov. 5 to all members explaining how we decided on the Kleinert location.
As our next steps, the facilities team will interview architectural firms and recommend an architect to the board. Once selected, the architect will study and assess the needs and desires of the congregation. This process will include input from congregants including live and/or virtual meetings. The design process will take some time and, we are confident, will result in a space for worship, study, and gathering of which our community can enjoy with pride for generations.
If you have questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact a board member or reach us at BatonRougeJewishFuture@gmail.com.