Cornelius board greenlights church renovation

The Cornelius Town Board voted unanimously on Monday to rezone the property for Bethel Presbyterian Church. This decision clears the path for a major modernization project that includes demolishing the existing fellowship hall.

The approved plan calls for a new addition to replace the old hall. The playground will move from the side of the building to the rear of the property. New parking spaces will be built around the structure to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Joseph Roy, speaking for the congregation, addressed the board's concerns about site compliance. The church proposes dedicating easements along the Bethel Church Road frontage to allow for future bicycle and pedestrian improvements. The plan also includes installing bicycle racks and adding an internal sidewalk connecting the main entrance to the existing crosswalk.

Approximately 30 church members attended the hearing to support the project. In response to a question from the board, Roy confirmed that the congregation will continue operating the property as an election precinct during the construction period.

The church also intends to plant additional trees along Bethel Church Road and elsewhere on the site. Roy stated that construction is expected to start in February 2027 and finish in spring 2028.

The rezoning was necessary because some buildings on the property predate the town's Land Development Code. The new design brings the site into greater compliance with current regulations.