By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
The replacement of the aging Community School roof may be taking place later than expected.
At the June 14 School Committee meeting, Director of Facilities Chris George said that there were issues with getting materials, something he said has been occurring nationwide. The replacement of the roof—estimated at $1 million through a bond—was slated to be completed before the fall semester begins. Now, however, it appears work won’t begin until Aug. 17 and will be completed in late October.
“Roofing manufacturers are not taking orders for a year,” he told the committee.
George said there are a number of things that can be done in July, and hopes that parts of the project can be completed early. He said that work will begin at the frontward portions of the roof and by the time the fall semester begins, the rearward sections—above the school gymnasium—will be finished.
The initial plan was to replace the roof over the summer of 2020. However, in a meeting with the Municipal Building Committee last February it was learned that by mid-March, roofing companies have mostly finalized their jobs for that year. Completing the project on short notice was possible, but would have driven up costs. A number of repairs have already been done, mainly to seams that have split, causing leaks. Those leaks led to concerns about air quality, which was tested by the Mass Department of Public Health.
On a related note, George updated the committee on the replacement of the track and bleachers at the Ray Beaupre Field. Work will begin before the end of the year, and take six to nine months to complete. During this time the entire complex will be closed to the public.
“If the winter is mild, we can do some work,” he said.