09/28/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2025
Thompson Congregational Church Restoration Advances – Phase 1 to Begin March 2026
Thompson, CT — The Thompson Congregational Church, a historic landmark in the center of town for more than 150 years, is moving forward with its restoration. With architectural work finalized, a major federal grant secured, and additional funding underway, the project is on track for a Phase 1 start in March 2026.
Most large church restorations take about nine years. This project began in 2020 and is expected to be completed by 2028, putting it ahead of the typical pace. This project has strong Federal, State and local support.
“This project is essential to the preservation of not only an iconic and historic New England church, but also to ensure that it remains a vital facility that serves the ongoing needs of the region and community and civic organizations.” Stated Former State Senate President Donald Williams.
The next major milestone is securing state funding, with a grant application already submitted to State Senator Mae Flexer, Senate leadership, and other appropriate officials.
The plan includes restoring the church and creating the Thompson Hill of Hope Community Center, offering programs such as adult education, youth and senior activities, pre-school, a soup kitchen, and concerts — continuing the church’s tradition of service to the community.
“Restoring our church is both an act of faith and a commitment to our community’s heritage. With broad support and careful planning, we are now within two years of completing this restoration,” said Bruce Hall, Rebuild Chair and member of the church.
Key Milestones Toward Completion (2028)
• Federal Grant Secured: $500,000 U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service (NPS).
o U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT) toured the church prior to the application and met with board members. His support, along with Senator Chris Murphy (CT), helped lead to the grant’s success.
o Fewer than 2% of applicants receive this award, which required a full review of the church’s organization, funding plan, and proposed restoration.
• Congregational Votes:
o Voted unanimously to restore: March 18, 2018
o Approved $135,000 for architectural services: June 25, 2024
• Architectural Progress:
o NPS grant application submitted: March 28, 2023
o Grant awarded: September 25, 2024
o Architectural drawings finalized and submitted: August 8, 2025
o Final NPS sign-off: expected Fall 2025
• Construction Timeline:
o Contractor bidding: December 2025 – January 2026
o Phase 1 construction: March – September 2026
o Phases 2–4 completed by September 2028
Funding Summary (Exceeds Goal by 9%)
Secured Funding
• $500,000 U.S. Interior Department/NPS
Grant
• $100,000 Congregation Donations
• $47,000 Connecticut Planning and Energy
Grants
• $161,000 Historical Tax Credit (25% reimbursement on eligible expenditures)
Total Secured: $808,000 (41% of goal)
Pending Funding
• $200,000 Connecticut State Preservation Grant (strong support from state agencies)
• $800,000 Connecticut State Governor’s Bond — on the Senate agenda Spring 2026. Former State Senate President Donald Williams confirmed the project is “on the radar screen of local legislators and Senate leadership.” State Senator Mae Flexer has advanced the proposal and provided strong support.
• $100,000 Additional Fundraiser planned for late Spring 2026
• $275,000 Historical Tax Credit (25% reimbursement on eligible expenditures)
Total Pending: $1,375,000 (69% of goal)
Projected Total: $2,183,000 (9% above $2,000,000 budget)
About the Architect
Evelyn Cole Smith is an accomplished architect with more than 30 years of experience in community-focused, sustainable, and historic preservation design. She has contributed to major museum projects — including the Boston Museum of Science and Smithsonian Institution museums — before founding her own firm in Woodstock, CT, and later leading architecture at CME. Today, as principal of Evelyn Cole Smith Architects, LLC, she specializes in historic preservation and community development while serving on multiple local historic and civic boards.
About the Project
The Thompson Congregational Church restoration is part of a broader effort to preserve the congregation, now approaching its 300th anniversary, and its historic heritage while creating sustainable new opportunities for community engagement. With architectural work completed, a major federal grant secured, and strong momentum for additional funding, the project stands among northeastern Connecticut’s most significant preservation efforts.
Media Contact:
Bruce G. Hall
513-375-8443
[email protected]
