Client: Elevate Church
Location: Millcreek Mall, Erie, Pennsylvania
Project Type: Renovation & Addition
Building System: Butler® Pre-Engineered Metal Building
Timeline: May 2023 (Initial Contact) – September 2025 (Completion)
Construction Duration: 11 months (October 2024 – September 2025)

Project Overview

When Pastor Colby Atkins contacted MGM Construction in May 2023, he had a straightforward problem: Elevate Church was outgrowing its space at the Millcreek Mall, but they didn’t own the building. With a 17-year lease, every dollar spent on improvements would eventually belong to the property owner.

The church needed classrooms and a multi-use space for its growing number of young families. They also wanted to be smart with their money—invest in what they needed without overspending on a building they’d never own.

MGM worked with the church’s design firm to find that balance.

 

The Challenge

  1. Leased Property: The church operated under a 17-year lease, so all construction improvements would belong to the mall owner when the lease expired
  2. Space Constraints: Years of congregation growth created an immediate need for dedicated classrooms, multi-use areas, and outdoor gathering space
  3. Budget Reality: Church leadership needed to spend wisely on necessities while avoiding overinvestment in property they didn’t own

 

MGM’s Solution

  1. Extended Planning Phase: Spent 17 months working through more than 20 different designs to find what worked best for the church’s budget and needs
  2. Butler® Metal Building System: Used pre-engineered components for the addition, which shortened construction time and provided flexible interior space at a predictable cost
  3. Design-Build Partnership: Collaborated with the church’s existing design team to keep everyone aligned on priorities and costs throughout the process

 

Project Scope

  • Renovated existing worship and gathering areas
  • Added new classrooms for children’s programming
  • Created multi-use spaces for various church activities
  • Developed an exterior grassy area for outdoor gatherings
  • Installed building systems sized appropriately for a leased facility

Results

The church received its completed facility in September 2025, ready for its new program year. The 11-month build created the larger space they needed to continue providing services to their devoted congregation.

The project shows what’s possible when you’re working with property constraints and good planning.