FPC needs $1 million+ in preservation work

The First Presbyterian Church needs more than $1 million in preservation work to address critical concerns and ensure its longevity, according to a new assessment of the historic building. The prescribed work includes projects designated as "high priority," including repairs and to steeples, masonry, woodwork, electrical and safety systems.

The goal of these efforts is not only to address immediate concerns but also to ensure the preservation of the church for future generations. As one of Hudson's architectural treasures, the church has been a focal point for religious, cultural, and community activities for decades.

"First Presbyterian Church is in dire need of help," said Gary Sheffer, president of the Friends of First Presbyterian. "In many ways, it's the heart of Hudson, aesthetically, historically, and practically for children and adults who use the building. For the balance of 2025, the Friends will be talking to residents, business owners, public officials and other members of the community about the building's future in advance of launching a capital campaign in 2026 to fund preservation work."

The church is a centerpiece of Hudson’s historic downtown. It was completed in 1837 at Fourth and Warren streets. In 1876 an addition was constructed along Warren Street, adding a gabled front entrance and two steeples, one of which contains the four-sided city clock.

The building assessment was conducted in early 2025 by architecture+ of Troy, N.Y. It identifies $1.1 million in recommended work on the building, about $600,000 of which is identified as "high priority," or "items which need immediate attention in order to protect public safety and/or to arrest current deterioration of the building." A similar assessment by architecture+ in 2021 identified $533,000 in unsatisfactory conditions, including the need for a new roof, which was installed in 2024. 

The new assessment identifies two “high priority” areas of concern not previously studied: accessibility and electrical and safety improvements. To address the lack of handicapped accessibility into and within the building, the report recommends creating exterior accessibility at the center entrance by resetting the slates to provide a ramp and landing area. Also, a new handicapped accessible elevator is proposed for the church's west tower to provide access to all levels of the building. 

Electrical and safety systems also need immediate attention. The report recommends replacing wiring, equipment connections, and wiring devices. Exit lights and signage should be installed, according to the report. Importantly, it recommends installation of new fire and smoke alarm systems. 

Other high priority projects identified in the report include:

· $150,000 in repairs to exterior stonework and the bluestone steps at the church entrance

· $65,000 to repair or replace deteriorated exterior wood trim along the building's eaves and metal trim at the north facade and towers

· $35,000 to repair and replace interior wall and ceiling plaster from a past roof look and to add insulation in the attic

The survey focused on the tower roofs, exterior masonry, exterior woodwork and metalwork, handicapped accessibility, sanctuary interior envelope, electrical, and site conditions. It does not include architectural costs in its estimates.