KC continues moving forward with projects on key buildings
KARNS CITY — Construction projects at Karns City Area School District range from small upgrades of facilities and the demolition of outdated ones, to contemplating the finances of a potential mid-eight figure high school renovation.
The school board provided updates at its Monday, June 15, meeting, which included information on where things stand with future renovation, progress on the demolition of the former Sugarcreek Elementary School and the status of the stadium project.
Following the district’s completion of its renovation of Karns City Area Elementary School, formerly Chicora Elementary School, district officials have said projects in upcoming years would include fixes and construction both small and large.
Based on the two design proposals drawn up by Hayes Design Group, total costs for a renovation of Karns City Area Jr./Sr. High School are projected to come in right around $50 million.
However, superintendent Eric Ritzert said Monday night the high school renovation proposal would be “pared down” after asking Hayes, who the district hired several months ago, to “keep things within walls of the school.”
The large-scale project will include updates around the property, such as new and improved classrooms and learning spaces, improved athletic facilities and significant heating and cooling improvements.
Ritzert said cost details would be available at the July meeting.
“I think the school district and the community will look forward to our renovation here at the high school and we’re working hard to strike the balance of delivering a quality renovation while also being mindful we have to scale it to what’s affordable for our local community and taxpayers,” Ritzert said.
The high school stadium’s lights, which date back to late ’50s according to Ritzert, will be replaced. New LED light posts will be placed at the 15 yard lines.
Track resurfacing will also be done around mid-July. At some point, the district will likely renovate the stadium bleachers, too, Ritzert said.
The district is looking to develop two soccer fields on the site of the former Sugarcreek Elementary School.
The demolition is winding down. According to the school board, the structure of the former elementary school is almost entirely razed, with concrete, metal and debris being separated and broken up.
Eventually, top soil will be hauled in and the ground surrounding the asphalt will be reseeded.
“Hopefully some time in the summer or the fall, the grass has taken root and we will be able to use that field area at some point moving forward, likely for soccer. Likely soccer practices,” Ritzert said. “The initial intent is to use it for that.”
