Contractors have started the installation process of a fence that will be used for securing construction equipment and materials as part of the school renovation project in Southwick. (Photo by Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – Residents and motorists in the area of the school complex will notice the beginnings of construction this week.
Superintendent John Barry said contractor PDS Engineering and Construction of Bloomfield, Conn. is set to erect fencing, run power, and bring in trailers starting this week.
“The low bid was accepted, the contract signed for the Woodland and Powder Mill projects, and we have established regular construction meetings,” Barry said.
“The real tangible aspect is the staging area, which is being set up now,” he added. “Fencing is being installed, which is the first step.”
Barry said because of the Fourth of July holiday, staging is a few days behind.
“It takes a while to get things up to speed and July 4 is almost a lost week,” Barry said.
The few days of missed time will not affect the start of the school year.
“That schedule is set,” he said.
Because of construction at the two schools, summer classes normally held there are taking place at the high school.
“I stopped in the high school and everyone is settled in,” Barry said.
The next big step for the campus-wide renovation is opening bids to start the high school project.
“We are opening more bids the third week of July,” said Barry.
Woodland Elementary School and Powder Mill Middle School renovations will take place throughout the school year. To accommodate construction, the preschool program will take place at Granville Village School this year and several classrooms were moved in order to create an empty wing for construction.
While Barry said there will be inconveniences, being able to work while school is in session shaves time off the project, which results in savings.
“Timing is important,” he said. “We’re going to have problems to sort out along the way, but it will all work out.”
