Students from New York’s High School for Construction Trades, Engineering and Architecture visited St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral in Manhattan to observe its ongoing restoration ahead of the landmark’s 60th anniversary in 2028.
The cathedral temporarily closed for interior renovations in September 2026. The current phase, with an estimated construction budget of $28 million, includes restoring the interior, modernizing building systems and improving community spaces. The cathedral is expected to reopen in spring 2028.
Organized by Cumming Group project manager Joyce Kim and assistant project manager Sofia Buonanno, the visit gave students access to active construction areas. Michael Trotta, construction superintendent at Structure Tone, guided the group through the site and explained the challenges of restoring the historic building.
Consecrated on April 28, 1968, by Catholicos Vazgen I, St. Vartan was the first Armenian cathedral built in the Western Hemisphere. Built through the efforts of Armenian Americans, including survivors of the Armenian Genocide, it has served as a religious and cultural center for generations of Armenians in the United States.
Inspired by the architecture of Holy Etchmiadzin and St. Hripsime, the cathedral remains a prominent symbol of Armenian heritage in New York City. Its restoration aims to preserve that legacy as it approaches six decades of service to the Armenian community.
