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Aging Infrastructure Results in Study
It is hard to believe but even the new wing, including the library, large gym, cafeteria, office, and music rooms are already 17 years old. Fortunately, they are still in excellent condition.
Even the older portions of the building, built in the years 1955, 1965, and 1991, continue to be sufficient in size and will suffice for projected future enrollment. We have maintained those spaces very well, with active and effective cleaning and maintenance efforts.
However, many mechanicals, information technology systems, the building frame, and parking lots are in need of attention. The Board of Education and Administration have identified the following areas in need of an in-depth study:
- Parking lot, including traffic flow.
- Blacktop in the back of the building, including basketball courts.
- Water drainage concerns near the building, on the south side.
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. A recent overview indicated many of the rooftop units and classroom univents are reaching the end of their life. About ¾ of the building does not have air conditioning.
- Drinking water with the Molybdenum issue (please wait for a future newsletter article on this topic).
- Roof repair in some sections.
- Carpet replacement.
- Outdated phone system.
- Outdated PA system.
- Information technology wiring closet updates.
- WIFI access points.
- Energy efficient windows and lighting (return on investment could be very beneficial to the overall budget).
- Secure access door system updates.
As a result of these identified needs, the Yorkville Board of Education directed the Administration to write a request for proposal (RFP) to various construction and architectural firms. The purpose of this is simply to seek information. For example, we want the firm doing the study to provide us an itemized list of concerns. These concerns would be itemized by dollar amounts, but will also provide us a prioritized list of immediate, intermediate, and long term physical plant and grounds needs.
In July, the Board of Education learned from Administration the needs identified above. In August, the Board of Education agreed to the parameters of an RFP. In September, the Board of Education and Administration interviewed four firms. In October, we secured an agreement with Nexus Solutions to perform the facility and grounds study.
Again, as a reminder to the reader, this is not regarding the need for new spaces. It is a study to look deeply into the mechanicals and infrastructure of the building and grounds, including technology.
In November, per the agreement, Nexus Solutions will provide the Board of Education with their findings.
We plan to keep our parents, community, staff, local businesses, and other partners informed over the upcoming months.
I am hopeful this newsletter was informative. Feedback is welcomed. My email address is [email protected]. I appreciate hearing from you.
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