Lee Kennedy Co. breaks ground on $19m Boston Conservatory project

Shown (from left) are: Lee Michael Kennedy, CEO, Lee Kennedy Co.; Richard Ortner, president, The Boston Conservatory and Blake Middleton, partner, Handel Architects.

Boston, MA Lee Kennedy Co. recently joined mayor Thomas Menino, faculty and trustees of The Boston Conservatory and Handel Architects to celebrate the groundbreaking of The Boston Conservatory's Hemenway St. project. The $19 million renovation and expansion is the Conservatory's first construction project in over 50 years.

"Boston is known worldwide for top-notch cultural and educational institutions," said mayor Menino. "The Boston Conservatory is one of our hidden jewels."

The project will provide new and renovated performance and rehearsal spaces as well as technical and utility upgrades. A new four-story, 32,000 s/f facility will house dance studios and an orchestra rehearsal hall while renovations to a neighboring three-story building will make way for a 300-seat theater. The school was able to secure financing for the project despite today's market conditions, raising over $30 million.

Lee Kennedy Co.'s team is working closely with New York City-based Handel Architects, owner's representative KVAssociates and the Conservatory on the project, which is slated for completion in October 2010.