KATHMANDU: The United Sherpa Association (USA), Inc. / Sherpa Kyidug America – New York has announced the launch of two major long-term infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening cultural preservation, community services, and institutional development for Sherpa communities in the United States.

The decision follows resolutions passed during the Executive Committee Meeting on November 8 and the joint meeting of the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee on November 15, 2025. The projects were formally announced at the Sherpa Kyidug America Hall in Elmhurst, New York.

The first project involves the complete reconstruction and upgrading of the Sherpa Kyidug building in New York. According to Pasang Sherpa, secretary at the association, the new structure will support safe, organized and efficient operations for community events, administrative work, and cultural and religious activities. The redevelopment aims to create a durable and sustainable facility that meets the long-term needs of the community.

The second major initiative—titled the “Lhapso Land Community House” project—will be developed on approximately 500 ropani of land in Wallkill, New York. The planned multi-purpose community house and retreat center will cater to spiritual programs, cultural activities, educational sessions, youth and children’s events, and large community gatherings. The project is expected to benefit Sherpa generations for decades to come, asociation secretary Sherpa added.

A Main Construction Committee has been formed to lead, coordinate and execute both projects. The coordinators include Lhakpa Rinji Sherpa, Chair of the Board of Trustees; former president Chhongba Thimi Sherpa; and former trustee coordinator Karsang Chhomba (Chhomba Lama). The committee also includes former general secretary Sangye Sherpa as secretary and Furnima Sherpa of Dolakha as treasurer.

Additional members of the committee are engineer Temba Sherpa, who currently serves as president; Ven. Tulku Urgen Khambuche as spiritual leader; and founding treasurer Lawang Sherpa. The association said more members will be appointed on an area-wise and region-wise basis as the projects advance.

The United Sherpa Association described both initiatives as foundational steps toward enhancing community identity and building sustainable infrastructure for future generations.