Report by Paula Antolini, August 18, 2021, 8:06PM EDT
Message from Dr. Christine Carver, Superintendent of Bethel Public Schools:
As we begin the start of the new school year, we would like to provide you with a project update for the renovations of Johnson and Rockwell Schools. Completing the two renovations “as new” projects under normal circumstances is stressful. Doing so during a pandemic, created an extra level of stress, but we are getting close to the end of our journey.
Construction Updates
At this point, all of the work in the buildings has been completed. There is a very small “punch list” of items that need to be finished. All building systems have been commissioned and we are working towards finishing a few items for a final Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Please note, we do have a temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). All visitors to the building, our students, and staff have been amazed by the design work, with an environment that is conducive to the 21st Century Learner. In addition, The Town of Bethel has just approved a solar project for both schools, and installation of the solar panels will be completed in the near future.
Financial Updates
As the project nears completion, as of August 9, 2021, the cash flow report indicated that the combined project is approximately $841,504 under budget. As presented in previous communications, the Rockwell School project is over budget due to environmental remediation and Johnson School was significantly under budget. We will finalize the amounts as we get closer to project completion. In addition, due to the foresight of the Public Site & Building Committee, the Town of Bethel has already received $413,805 from Eversource in the form of energy rebates for a design that promotes energy efficiency.
Site Work Updates
Site work is the area that needs the most attention. There are a significant amount of “punch list” items that need to be addressed. Please note, the Public Site & Building Committee and district are very aware of the issues and they will be addressed in early September with the growing season.
A special thank you to the Public Site & Building Committee (PSBC) for their collaboration with the district in oversight of the project. You have no idea the amount of time individual members have invested in the projects. Not only in terms of attendance at the PSBC meetings, but follow-up in the schools to ensure the quality of work being completed. The PBSC members are:
- Nancy Ryan, Chair
- Bob Germinaro
- Deno Gualtieri
- David Horvath
- Jon Menti
- David Olson
- John Perna
- Rich Straiton
- Roy Steiner
- Kathy Galbis, Recording Secretary
In addition, a special thanks to our Owner’s Representative, Geralyn Hoerauf from STV for coordination of the project.
Lastly, we would like to give a special thanks to our faculty and students at both schools. Living in an environment that is being renovated is extremely difficult. Their flexibility in needing to suddenly adapt was noteworthy. We would not have been able to accomplish what we have without their cooperation.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at [email protected].
###