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Board approves emergency repairs to South Campus gym veneer after structural review
Summary
The Board of Education authorized emergency repair work on the decorative glazed block veneer in the South Campus gym after architects described failing anchors and deteriorating grout; the board approved spending $443,700 to complete repairs this summer.
The Lyons Township High School District 204 Board of Education approved an emergency contract May 20 to repair the decorative glazed block veneer in the South Campus gym, citing the need to finish work over the summer so the gymnasiums can reopen for fall activities.
Ryan Stashek, a district staff member who presented the item, said the district obtained a quote from HAP Builders — a contractor already working on the South Campus — to complete the work this summer, and the cost estimate provided to the board was $443,700.
John Morawski of DLA Architects told the board the thin glazed block veneer that covers the gym wall was applied in the late 1950s, has a weak anchoring system and deteriorating grout. “Structurally, completely fine. The veneer is just old and anchored improperly,” Morawski said, explaining the contractor would remove the loose veneer and reanchor new block to the existing bearing wall so that the top of the veneer — the weakest area — is stabilized.
Board members asked whether similar veneer appears elsewhere in the buildings; Morawski said other blocks on campus are wider and not subject to the same problem, and the work in the gym is not expected to indicate widespread deterioration elsewhere. Because masons were already on site for other summer work, the district said it could expedite the repair and achieve cost and scheduling advantages.
Board members discussed safety risks and timing; presenters said the emergency authorization was requested to avoid safety issues and to ensure the work could be complete before the school year. The board approved the emergency authorization by roll call; all members present voted yes.
District staff said the repair will remove the failing veneer, reanchor and reinstall match materials where possible, and that the 12‑inch bearing block behind the veneer will remain in place. Work will begin promptly on board approval so gymnasiums are available for activities when school resumes in August.
