SDSD District Newsletter – March 2024 - Construction Update
Where We’re At: The construction crew is currently finishing interior framing and rough-ins of mechanical, electrical, and fire suppression. Rough-ins refer to the initial phase of construction where the basic framework or infrastructure of a building is installed before the finishing touches are added. During the rough-in phase, contractors work on the skeletal structure of the building, laying the groundwork for the various systems that will be concealed behind walls, floors, and ceilings.
Drywall is also being installed, with paint and tile to come in the upcoming weeks. Exterior brick and masonry are complete, as well as the window panels in the multipurpose community athletic facility. Exterior windows and doors will be installed in the coming weeks.
We are also excited that, based on the current position of the referendum projects, we can move forward with the use of contingency funds to build the greenhouse! Based on successful and timely completion of the phase one projects last summer, and the progress of phase two (multipurpose athletic facility), there will be contingency funds to use for the shell of the greenhouse.
Contingency funds refer to a reserved portion of the project budget set aside for unforeseen expenses or changes in scope that may arise during the course of construction. These funds act as a safety net to cover unexpected costs, such as material price increases, design modifications, site conditions not originally anticipated, or delays due to inclement weather. The purpose of contingency funds is to mitigate risks and uncertainties inherent in construction projects, ensuring that sufficient resources are available to address unplanned circumstances without significantly impacting the project timeline or budget.
The District will be informed sometime in May or June 2024 whether we will receive funding through a U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm to School Turnkey grant (funds up to $50,000), to equip the greenhouse with everything from tables to furnishings and hydroponics.
We are looking forward to the completion of phase two 2022 referendum projects, which include the multipurpose community athletic facility and greenhouse. The completed phase one projects, which include a newly expanded parking lot, renovated elementary and middle school art classrooms, a refurbished high school family and consumer science classroom, and the relocation of the district office, have been a source of delight and utility of students, staff, parents, and members of the community alike, who have been actively utilizing these improved amenities since August 2023.
What’s Next: In the coming months, concrete and turf will be installed in the multipurpose community athletic facility, as well as athletic equipment and padding. Interior flooring and finishes will be installed in the lobby, weight room, and bathrooms. Exterior concrete, asphalt and landscaping will begin in early summer, as well as the installation of the greenhouse. The greenhouse will be completed towards the end of the project this August.
Project Timeline: Our 2022 referendum projects are on-schedule to be completed in August 2024.