MMA Completes Phase I of Its Major Office Upgrade

(September 29, 2009) Mennonite Mutual Aid (MMA) has completed Phase I if its major office upgrade in partnership with DJ Construction.  The project involved the addition of new office space to the east end of MMA's 1110 North Main Street facility in Goshen.  The project will be completed in three phases and is targeting Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification through the U.S. Green Building Council.

With the September completion of the Phase I addition, a total of 22,000 square feet of new space spread over two stories now provides MMA with much-needed office space.  One of the building's most noticeable sustainable features is the open web truss system on the upper level with clerestory windows to maximize the use of natural light.  To keep cooling costs at a minimum, sun shades on south-facing walls prevent the sun's heat from increasing temperatures in office spaces while still allowing natural light to permeate the space.

According to DJ Construction Project Manager Howie Mathews, the addition required careful planning and problem solving.  Prior to construction, MMA's entire electrical and communication service systems had to be re-routed.  Because a significant portion of the building is below grade, retaining walls were installed as construction progressed.  The crew was working with three different building elevations at the same time, ensuring that the floors of the original building and the addition would meet ADA requirements.

Phase II of the project is now underway and involves the demolition of existing space on the building's southwest end (along State Road 15) and an addition in its place to house a new branch office for Mennonite Financial Federal Credit Union, which became MMA's banking partner last year.  The project will finish with Phase III, a renovation of remaining office space in the original building.  When complete, the building is slated to become Goshen's first LEED-Certified project.

MMA's goals for the project include consolidating its growing customer service offices and creating more efficient and flexible work areas to solve current overcrowding and improve the working environment.

MMA helps people and groups integrate their finances with faith values through its insurance and financial services.  Rooted in the Anabaptist faith tradition, MMA also offers practical stewardship education and tools to individuals, congregations, organizations, and businesses.  To learn more, visit www.MMA-online.org or call (800) 348-7468.