Capital Project Wraps Up – Under Budget & Ahead of Schedule
I’m pleased to share with the community that we are now in the final phase of the 2012 Capital Project. You may remember that the elements of this Capital Project were Facilities Repairs and Renovations and Athletic Fields/Stadiums as defined after studying our NYS Building Condition Reports, the Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Report, and listening to our community’s input.
This thoughtful research and the community’s approval of the 2012 Capital Project Propositions led to repairs and renovations to all nine school buildings and improvements to our fields. These field improvements have allowed for more student and community participation as it has extended the length of seasonal and daytime use of these facilities. The facility improvements have enhanced aesthetics, efficiency, environmental comfort and safety/security. We are grateful for the community’s support for these infrastructure repairs and improvements to preserve our community’s assets.
On Schedule and Within Budget
The first five construction phases of the project are currently complete. This last phase of the Capital Project is expected to be substantially complete by Fall 2018.
Paramount to being financially able to do the significant scope of work on the final phase, was capitalizing on a favorable bidding climate by performing a bulk of the work during the winter and spring months when contractors traditionally do not have as much work.
Added-value Projects
The project has been so successful that we have been able to complete the bid alternates that were priorities identified in the NYS Building Condition Survey and approved by PCSD voters and the NYS Education Department-Facilities Planning. For example, we were able to:
- Replace the boilers at four schools
- Renovate the front façade at Allen Creek Elementary School
- Replace water lines throughout Jefferson Road Elementary School
- Renovate the Sutherland High School natatorium into usable space (see photo). The SHS pool was taken out of commission due to the exorbitant cost to make necessary repairs to a pool built in the 1950’s. After the pool is filled in and the floor is leveled, the scope of work will include:
- Installing a cushioned laminate that is well suited for many instructional purposes and/or large-group and computer-based testing
- Replacing bleachers for large group instruction as well as athletic events such as wrestling competitions
- Renovating the southwest corner entrance to provide a foyer that is more functional during inclement weather
- Upgrading HVAC, electrical, Wi-Fi wiring and lighting
- Enhancing main entrance security, improving internal and external lighting, reconfiguring bus loops and traffic patterns
As good stewards of these community assets, we are proud that we were able to supplement the scope the 2012 Capital Project. Accomplishing all these high priority projects supports the system integrity of District buildings, creates compliance with building and safety codes, updates our communication technologies, and enhances the quality of the District’s educational and athletic programs.
Thank you to our entire school community for supporting this project, and for your cooperation and understanding during the various phases that may have affected a building your child attends or where you work.