First Church of Christ Scientist, Oakland, California

The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake was the motivation for this landmark Church’s life safety upgrades. Seismic stabilization was the biggest part of the project. However, the project also included the application of the State Historical Building Code for accessibility improvements and a new ramp into the church. Originally, the City requested a front entry ramp, but after an appeal to the Accessibility Board and a minor Encroachment Permit, a side ramp entry to this public monument was allowed in order to preserve the church’s historical facade.