Jenkins Middle School renovation progresses with demolition and building permits secured

Under the bright lights of the Colorado Springs School District No. 11 boardroom, a sense of urgency filled the air as officials gathered to discuss the ongoing renovations at Jenkins Middle School. The meeting, held on April 23, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in the district's commitment to restoring the school, with updates on construction progress and future plans taking center stage.

Superintendent Colin Comfort opened the session by emphasizing the board's promise to provide weekly updates on the Jenkins project. He introduced key members of the construction team, highlighting their collaborative efforts to ensure the school is ready for students. "We are moving very quickly," Comfort stated, underscoring the importance of timely decisions as the district aims for partial occupancy by August 2025 and full occupancy by August 2026.

The construction team reported significant progress, including the acquisition of necessary permits and the commencement of demolition work. "We have started demolition in the Media Center and other parts of the school," one team member noted, showcasing the rapid pace of the project. Visuals of the ongoing work illustrated the transformation taking place, with plans to replace the existing structural slab to address previous settlement issues.

As discussions progressed, the team outlined a detailed timeline for the project, emphasizing the importance of inspections and compliance with safety standards. "We're building a building to current standards. There's no free passes," a construction representative assured, reinforcing their commitment to safety and quality.

The relationship with local fire and building departments was highlighted as a crucial factor in the project's success. The team expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit and responsiveness of these agencies, which have facilitated a smoother process amid the challenges of renovation.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board members and construction team prepared to transition into discussions about the next phases of the project. The atmosphere remained optimistic, with a shared commitment to restoring Jenkins Middle School as a safe and welcoming environment for students. The community's trust and support were palpable, as officials reiterated their dedication to transparency and progress in the coming months.