New Masonic Lodge is Almost Complete

The new Freemasons Hal — Valley Lodge 36 — is almost complete, pending approval for the building’s sign, landscaping and a few other details.

Planning for the project, located at 991 Hopmeadow Street, began about three years ago. Construction on the new 4,265-square-foot, one level, handicap accessible and fully air-conditioned building began in May of last year and was completed in November.

The hall was built as a meeting place for the 250 members, and for use by non-profit organizations. According to its web site, the history of Valley Lodge 36 is short, but based on the long histories of St Marks 36, St Marks 91 and Hiram 98, as these three lodges from Simsbury, Granby and Bloomfield consolidation several years ago.

The cost to use the facility will be minimal, said William Bohman, president of the building association board for the Masonic Lodge. It will be enough to cover expenses such as lighting, heating, air conditioning and insurance. 

Bohman has been a member of the Masons since 1988. He comes from a family of members.  

He said he thought the Masons were one of the oldest organizations in the Simsbury.

On February 8, at the design review board’s meeting, Bohman presented a plan for the new sign, but board members did not approve the application. In order to receive approval, the board needs a graphic and a specific landscaping plan, said town planner Hiram Peck.

"I have a call into them to get details on exactly what they are looking for," said Bohman, who described some ground lighting that needed to be enhanced with trees and shrubbery. The new sign is among the many details on the "work in progress" list of this project. 

A graphic and landscaping plan will be presented at the next design review board meeting on February 22.