This 1920s synagogue was acquired by a Church that wanted to transform it into an education and recreation center. However, because of its dated design and poor condition, a complete upgrade was necessary to meet client needs and ADA requirements. The large staircase to the first-floor entrance prohibited handicap accessibility, so an elevator needed to be installed. Unfortunately, the basement literally had water running through it — an underground stream. So waterproofing techniques, similar to those used for hydroelectric dams, were used to make the basement watertight, enabling the installation of the elevator. The next summer, Philadelphia experienced some of the worst torrential rain in its history. The basement, however, didn't see a single drop.