HENRIETTA, N.Y. (WROC) — An old catholic church is getting new life in the town of Henrietta: The Good Shepherd Church on East Henrietta Road. The town acquired the church in 2021 , as they cut a deal with the previous owners, the Rush-Henrietta School District.
Currently, work is underway to revitalize the church to become a community theater space, a possible polling location, and an event space for rental. The town is hopeful that it will be available for rental — similar to a park cabin — in the summer.
“It was a historic building, so we didn’t want to see it destroyed,” said Henrietta Town Supervisor, Steve Schultz.
Much of the work in the first year alone was stabilizing the foundation, and plumbing and interior work.
Additionally, significant work needed to be done to make handicap accessible. After a supply chain delay, the outer ramp is almost done.
Work inside will also include ADA-compliant changes: such as the removal of the multi-level stage, adding bathrooms, a prep kitchen, and more.