December 2008

As the winter months approach, there is always a lot of sleep lost worrying about the weather and how it will affect progress; this year is no exception.  Below average low temperatures hit early this year and came in with a good deal of moisture.  The contractors have been juggling tasks to avoid delays as much as possible and have been working feverishly to get the buildings enclosed or protected so that work can continue.  It is impressive how dedicated and hearty most of the work crews are, and I’m sure they will continue to work through whatever Mother Nature dishes out this winter.

The March project hit some important milestones this month.  New foundations have been completed and as of a few days ago, steel is swinging.  By the time this update is read, a majority of the steel work will be completed and it should only be a few short weeks before the building is enclosed and ready for new interiors. Masonry restoration work is proceeding a little more slowly than expected due to weather and continued discovery of existing building deterioration.  (All three main entrances of the building had to be completely dismantled and rebuilt. This was in lieu of a simpler “re-facing” that we were hoping to be able to accomplish.)  Either way, there should be agreement that the end result of the work is nothing short of spectacular as can be seen in the progress photos.  Installation of new windows should be about 50% complete by years end and will provide an original look that the architect intended almost 100 years ago. 

The elementary school formerly known as Paxinosa continues to proceed smoothly.  The foundation work will be complete this week and the final steel erection for the two classroom wings will be wrapped up by month’s end.  Roofing replacement has begun and it has given way to interior reconstruction.  The first of the original classroom pods has new walls complete with insulation and drywall.  The other pods will follow closely behind.  Within a few weeks, the exterior stud walls will be installed in the new additions and all of the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing crews will be moving into those areas to begin their infrastructure work.  For the time being, they are content to work in the heated portions of the original building where ductwork, wiring and plumbing installations are being completed well ahead of schedule.

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy new year to all the residents and our friends at Easton Area School District!