JHS Gym completion on tight schedule

Officials are still holding their breath about scheduling the Jasper High School Commencement at the gymnasium.

Clerk of the Works Scott Stenftenagel informed the Greater Jasper Consolidated School Board weather had been a major factor in slowing the construction of the new gym, but it shouldn’t be a factor anymore. Crews have concentrated on getting the interior under roof and the exterior walls clad so weather won’t be a factor in finishing the interior anymore.

Unfortunately, according to Stenftenagel, the floor of the gymnasium is wet from snowmelt which has postponed the installation of the concrete floor until Feb. 6. Once the concrete is poured, crews won’t be able to install wooden flooring until it has cured enough to reduce its water content. Stenftenagel stated the concrete mixture has been adjusted with less water and cement to allow it to cure more quickly and contractors should be able to begin installing the wood floor within the next 30 days.

On the current schedule, the wooden floor will be completely finished by Apr. 29. Contractor will then begin installing the bleachers, which are scheduled to be finished by May 17; a week before graduation.

Stenftenagel stated there really wasn’t any wiggle room for anymore setbacks but with everything out of the weather, contractors will be able to condition the building to continue progressing.