By Kevin Collison

McCownGordon Construction celebrated the start of a $10.5 million renovation project that will convert a three-story building at 850 Main St. into its new headquarters Wednesday.

“We wanted a home right in the heart of downtown Kansas City that would position our firm for the next 20 years,” CEO Ramin Cherafat told an audience gathered for the groundbreaking event.

The 45,000 square-foot building had been owned by the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and previously was occupied by Catholic Charities.

The renovation design by Helix Architecture + Design will remove the existing facade and replace it with glass. The firm, which employs 275 people locally, plans to relocate there in early 2019.

Amenities will include comprehensive technology, fitness center, expanded conference and collaboration spaces, and a rooftop patio. The building also is located near a streetcar stop.

“The plans for this building look so fantastic, you’ll be happy to work in this building,” said Bob Langenkamp, chairman of the Kansas City Economic Development Corp.

The new headquarters is more than double the size of the firm’s current offices at 422 Admiral Blvd.

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