Park Central Presbyterian Church has been part of downtown Syracuse since 1846, and its beautiful sanctuary and soaring spires have symbolized faith in the city since 1872. But its presence at the corner of East Fayette is — and has always been — dynamic, not static.

The Parish House was added to the main structure in 1922. It was in honor of the church’s 150th anniversary in 1996 that generous gifts to a capital campaign supported renovations of the parlor level, as well as the dining room and kitchen in the basement and a nursery on the second floor.

Now the plan is to install a modern elevator that will make it easy to reach all four floors of the Parish House. A lift will assist those who need to avoid the stairs to the sanctuary. The Elevette, a residential-style device installed in the 1960s, served this purpose for decades, but it has become a barrier for many who need it, not only because it is difficult to operate, but because it is too small for many modern wheelchairs and motorized scooters. The new elevator will have doors on two sides, so its passengers will be facing east or west as they enter and exit. Adding doors to a third side would have added greatly to the cost; the lift makes this expenditure unnecessary.

The Upper Rooms on the third floor will be transformed into spaces that welcome everyone, not just the youngest and most nimble. Its design and decor will enhance worship in the chapel, encourage activities in the central area and learning in the classrooms. Restrooms will have up-to-date fixtures and showers.

The third floor chapel is also scheduled for renovation into a more useful space that will welcome Bible study classes, intimate worship, and small weddings and will provide rehearsal and small performance space for musical talent, too. The church has been blessed since its earliest days by people who love to make a joyful noise unto the Lord.