Johnstown-Monroe superintendent outlines new multipurpose building, turf field and accessibility upgrades

Philip Wagner, superintendent of the Johnstown-Monroe Local School District, told attendees the district is building a nearly 12,000-square-foot multipurpose building between the city building and the church that "will be available for any kind of sports activities we need." He said the band will also be able to use the indoor space for practice during poor weather.

Wagner said the district owns a separate North Campus (the former middle/elementary site) where it plans a regulation-size turf soccer field that "will become the home of our soccer team." He described upgrades at the baseball and softball complex, including outfield drainage work and a new concession stand connected by a walkway that will improve restroom and concession access for spectators and people with limited mobility.

On construction sequencing, Wagner said crews are cutting grass and removing topsoil, with sanitary work next; he estimated structural steel will appear "probably by the end of June," but added the schedule depends on weather. Responding to an audience question, he said the district is "shooting for December 26 this year" as a target completion date for the multipurpose facility, while cautioning that weather could affect that timeline.

Wagner framed the projects as part of a broader facilities plan tied to student growth. He said the recent six-classroom addition at the high school and the multisport facility are intended to support current programs and anticipated enrollment increases.

The district offered to give tours of the new classrooms and facilities to interested community members; Wagner said the board and staff will continue to monitor schedules and weather in setting firm completion dates.