September 5, 2006

New Knoxville Schools Renovation Project

New Knoxville School Superintendent Chuck Rowen addressed the club with an overview of the upcoming renovation of the New Knoxville Schools.

Due to the 1999 renovation project, the assessment of the existing school came in at 64% which is below the 67% required to qualify for total replacement of the school by State standards.  As a result, it is necessary to renovate the existing facilities.  Renovation costs around $83/sq ft versus $183/sq ft for new construction.  The project cost is $9M with contributions from a 3.3 mil property tax, a 1/4% income tax levy and the remaining 63% of the funding coming from the State.

The outside of the building will essentially remain the same with only subtle changes, the most noticeable being the elimination of window air conditioner units. Also, the current limited parking will be expanded to include spaces for 258 vehicles. Internally, the project will be focused on 'peeling the skin and fixing the bones'.  This aspect will include a new zoned central HVAC system, replacement of the 1938 electrical system, elimination of remaining asbestos and lead paint, new lighting and plumbing and upgrades to satisfy the ADA requirements for handicap access.  Two 900 sq ft classrooms will be added along with a new conference room.  He noted that the central air conditioning is needed to address issues commonly known as 'sick building syndrome with dampness and resulting bacteria growth as well as protecting students from outside fumes and pollution.

Chuck highlighted 5 primary goals for the project as follows:

    2). Maintaining the quality of education amidst the distractions

    3). Provide a first class facility

    4). Meet budget

    5). Provide a timely completion of the project

Construction is scheduled to begin in June of '07 and run through January '09.  If the project can be brought in under budget, alternate plans include upgrading the food prep facilities and provide enclosed restroom facilities for all athletic events.  The upgrade to the school complements other changes in the community including the new bank building, new housing starts and a new industrial park.

Hosting Rotarian: Larry Kellermeyer