Westerly Public Schools' School Building Subcommittee met on October 30, 2024, to discuss ongoing construction projects and budget updates, highlighting significant progress and financial management that directly impacts the community.
The meeting opened with updates on the construction at the Coopula, where the team is nearing completion. A walk-through is scheduled to finalize the project, with only minor trim work remaining. The committee expressed excitement about the advancements, indicating that the project is on track to finish soon.
Attention then shifted to the State Street site, where crews are working on installing aggregate piers. The process has encountered challenges due to large rocks, which require specialized machinery to remove. The committee noted that while this can be costly, it is essential for the project's progress. They are actively managing the situation to ensure that construction continues without significant delays.
A discussion arose regarding the handling of rocks that have been excavated from the site. The general contractor raised concerns about the costs associated with moving these rocks multiple times. The committee is exploring options for disposal and has contacted companies for potential solutions, although interest has been limited. This issue underscores the complexities of construction logistics and budgeting.
Financially, the committee reported a total surplus of approximately $2.9 million, which includes unassigned funds and contingencies from various projects. This surplus represents about 6.8% of the total construction costs, aligning with industry standards for contingency funds. The committee emphasized that they are currently on schedule and within budget, which is reassuring for community members concerned about fiscal responsibility.
In closing, the meeting reinforced the commitment to transparency and effective management of the school construction projects. As these developments progress, they promise to enhance educational facilities in Westerly, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community. The next steps will involve continued monitoring of construction activities and financial oversight to ensure that the projects meet their intended goals.