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Vermont Woodworking School Expansion Project Receives USDA Grant for Bio-Mass Furnace

Submitted by tim on

Vermont Woodworking School Expansion Project
Receives USDA Grant for Bio-Mass Furnace
The USDA has awarded Fairfax Woodworking, LLC an energy-efficiency grant to install a bio-mass furnace at its Vermont Woodworking School VWS expansion project. The school is moving from its industrial park location in Colchester to a 15,000 square foot red barn in Fairfax just 4 miles west of Cambridge on Route 104. As part of this expansion, this three-story cattle barn that was being used as a venue to sell books and other thrift items is receiving an energy efficient fit-up and will be a modern shop for woodworking students and residents.
Fairfax Woodworking, LLC is managing the renovation project in consultation with Efficiency Vermont and Vermont Department of Historic Preservation. In addition to the bio-mass furnace, the project will use closed cell foam insulation, energy efficient lighting, and radiant heat flooring.
In addition to the barn, a farmhouse on the property is also undergoing a renovation respectful of historic integrity and energy efficiency. Sean Knight, a Vermont Woodworking School student has replicated and replaced otherwise decayed intricate, historic moldings on the house. This house will be used as instructor and student housing. Permits are in place to build a dorm on the property in the future.
Private space in the shop is available for lease starting January 1, 2009 and offers shared access to larger equipment, the finish room, the upholstery studio and eventually, gallery space. This space is open to woodworkers, furniture-makers and other craftspeople if it is determined to be a good fit.
Individuals interested in becoming residents at the new location are encouraged to contact Blake Ewoldsen to discuss possibilities and schedule a tour. Blake can be reached at the woodshop at 802-655-4201 or by e-mailing [email protected]. Pictures of this project and the location can be viewed online at www.VermontWoodworkingSchool.com.