School construction moves ahead

Roof projects aren’t necessarily exciting to watch, but students are seeing new playground equipment being installed at Clarkston’s elementary schools.
In his new role as “owner’s representative,” Building and Grounds Director Wes Goodman last week told the board of education of several areas of progress.
Installation of new playground equipment is underway at Clarkston, Bailey Lake, Pine Knob and North Sashabaw elementary schools, with work to begin at Andersonville Elementary next week.
All should be complete by Nov. 1, Goodman said.
Roof projects appear to be nearing completion, with “punch lists” (a final checklist of contracted tasks) being reviewed at Bailey Lake, North Sashabaw and Pine Knob elementaries and Sashabaw Middle School.
Superintendent Al Roberts admitted some lingering concerns of odors from spilled roofing tar at North Sashabaw Elementary. Meetings were scheduled last week to determine some “stopgap” measures to deal with the odors.
While admitting the sensitivity some have with the smell, Roberts said additional air quality testing has shown the building to be free of environmental health concerns.
“We are relying on that,” Roberts said.
Goodman said architects have met with each building’s “design response team” to review rough renovation plans and seek feedback. Survey work is taking place at each building site, he said.
Trustees asked about the extent of a planned irrigation system, bids for which were received Sept. 26. While some thought the project was only for athletic fields, Goodman said front lawns of school buildings are also part of that project.
The ongoing construction is a result of the $83.7 million bond issue approved by voters in June.