By Gail Peckler-Dziki
Correspondent
Like almost all schools in the area, Salem Grade School has had additions dated from various years as far back as the 1950s.
Those additions have been repaired but never updated, so Salem is embarking on a project that will upgrade and update many portions of the building and its infrastructure.
The current area where parents drop off students and the reception waiting room are not compatible with today’s student population of 1,000.
The parking lot traffic flow will be changed to allow for a safer and more spacious area where parents who drive their children to school can safely drop them off.
The waiting room for the lower grade administrative office will be enlarged to better accommodate parents.
The work will be done in two phases, starting this year officially, but the district began addressing problems in the kitchen area. Equipment began failing because of deferred maintenance.
Interior and exterior lighting will be improved as will HVAC and automation systems.
The total project cost is estimated at $7.7 million and Nexus has guaranteed an annual energy/maintenance savings starting at $63,000 and increasing to $92,000 in 20 years for a total on $1.5 million by the end.
Annual savings amounts will be used to decrease the district levy.
Other debt will drop off, allowing for no increases to continue paying off this one. However, plans are not finalized. Design committee meetings are scheduled for Feb. 25 and Mar. 9, 18 and 23.