A Key Step in Bringing the Heart of the Mikva to Life!

This past week marked a meaningful milestone in the construction of the Mikva, with a focused on-site meeting centered on the most important element of the entire building — the Mikva pool.

Founder Sholly Levy, Rabbi Webb (member of the Board of Directors), the project contractor, and Rabbi Yermiye Katz, who is overseeing the koshering of the Mikva, came together to carefully review, measure, and discuss the construction of the main pool and side pools. This collaborative meeting ensured that every detail is being carried out according to Halacha, under the Rabbi’s direct guidance.

Together, they reviewed all specifications in depth — including the rainwater entry point, the holding and storage areas, and the precise method by which the rainwater will be transported into the pool. Each measurement and structural element was examined carefully.

This type of hands-on collaboration is essential. The Mikva pool is the heart of the building, and ensuring it is constructed correctly from the outset is of utmost importance. Seeing the Rabbi and contractor review and confirm every detail together on site was both reassuring and exciting.

With this thoughtful review complete, the project continues to move forward with clarity and confidence, knowing that the Mikva is being built with care, precision, and deep respect for its sacred purpose.

We’re thrilled to share an exciting milestone in the mikva construction: the cradle — the circumference area of the pool!

This is the foundational space where the pool will eventually be installed in the center of the building, with dressing rooms surrounding it.

Completing the cradle is a crucial step: it sets the stage for the pool itself, ensuring everything is perfectly aligned and ready for the next phase. Walking around the space, you can already imagine the mikva coming to life — a serene, private, and sacred place for renewal, with every detail carefully considered.

Step by step, the vision is taking shape. With the cradle complete, we’re one step closer to creating a beautiful mikva that will serve the community for generations to come.

Basement Progress Update

We’re excited to share another meaningful step forward! The entire basement has now been completely cleared out, opening the space for the next phase of construction. Over the coming days, the team will be installing new drainage and piping to ensure a strong, reliable foundation for the mikvah’s long-term use. Once that’s in place, a brand-new concrete floor will be poured.

Steady progress — and every step brings us closer to welcoming the community into this beautiful new space.

Please share your memories, ideas, or suggestions — help us preserve and shape the mikva’s legacy

Chayala’s Mikva is returning to East Flatbush, honoring decades of tradition and the vision of the Rebbe. This dedicated women’s center, open seven nights a week, will provide a private, welcoming space for our community. In addition to the mikva itself, a new second-floor women’s center will serve as a daytime gathering place for learning, inspiration, and connection.

We’d love your input! Share your memories, ideas, and stories in the comments below. Some ways to contribute:

• Memories of the original mikvah — Did you, a family member, or a friend use it? What did it mean to you?

• Suggestions for the new mikvah — Ideas for programs, events, or ways to make the space welcoming and meaningful.

• Reflections on our community — Stories, photos, or anecdotes that celebrate the mikvah’s role in East Flatbush and Crown Heights life.

Your contributions help preserve the legacy of the original mikvah while shaping a space that will serve generations to come. Every comment strengthens our shared history and keeps the mikva’s spirit alive.

We’re excited to share the latest update on our roof progress!

Our dedicated team has been hard at work bringing the flat roof to completion. We can now see each stage of the process: the wood decking has been carefully installed, followed by a protective layer of DensDeck to add strength and durability, and finally a waterproof barrier, often referred to as tar paper, to protect the building from the elements.

This finishing work is crucial for ensuring the roof is fully stable, secure, and ready to support the spaces inside and any future enhancements above. Watching each layer come together is a tangible reminder of the careful planning and skilled craftsmanship that go into every part of the Mikva project.

We’re so grateful to the workers and team making this possible, and we look forward to sharing the next steps as the building continues to take shape.

Stay tuned for more updates — every step brings us closer to creating a safe, serene, and beautiful Mikva for the community!