POTSDAM -- Trinity Episcopal Church will launch the second and final phase of a major renovation and expansion of the 175-year-old church Tuesday, Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.

The project, to be managed by Danko Construction of Massena, will add more than 2,300 square feet to the church complex on Fall Island by expanding the existing parish hall to include new classrooms and meeting rooms. The renovations will also include accessible bathrooms for people with disabilities and a wheelchair lift.

Church rector Rev. Dr. Christopher Brown will be present along with architect Brooks Washburn, Larry Danko of Danko Construction of Massena, church wardens Sally Elliot and Richard Hunter, and representatives from the Vestry and the Projects Committee.

“Breaking ground this month is the culmination of a process of many years,” said Rev. Brown. “Many were involved in the discernment of our mission to the Potsdam community for the 21st century, and in the planning and implementation of a variety of projects as we have looked to our future.”

He continued, “Trinity has been a beacon within the Potsdam community for 175 years; an attractive, handicapped- accessible, and practical space will enable us to fulfill our vocation of worship and outreach to the community in the name of Jesus Christ.”

The project is supported by Trinity’s 2005-2006 “Preserving the Past, Framing the Future” capital campaign that raised the necessary funds for the two-phase project. The first phase focused on renovations to the existing building, including repairs to the clock tower, masonry work and the installation of a new copper roof.

Phase-two construction is expected to be completed by June 1, 2011.

Trinity Church was built in 1835 in the Federal style with Gothic elements built of red Potsdam sandstone. It was greatly enlarged and transformed into High Victorian Gothic style later in the 19th century, with less significant alterations continuing into the 20th century.

Architect Washburn’s design is aimed at preserving the dignity and character of the original designs while creating spaces suited for use in for the 21st century.

In 2003, Trinity Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.