Officials at Comox Valley Schools expect construction at Lake Trail Middle School to finish by June 2021, despite the state of the world during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Public Health Act has limited gatherings to 50 people to help slow the transmission of COVID-19. The order, however, does not apply to construction sites.
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“They (government) changed up some of their practices,” said Ian Heselgrave, director of operations at SD71. “We’re in a fortunate situation in a couple of regards. Right now, most of the work is outside, and the outside work is absolutely ideal. There’s better opportunities to social distance.”
Construction is on schedule, but Heselgrave anticipates possible delays as the project continues.
“I think that would be as a result of the supply chain, but right now we’re OK.”
He credits contractors for creating separate lunch rooms, and installing tempered hand-washing stations as extra precautions. WorkSafeBC conducted a recent inspection and concluded it to be a model site.
“The school they’re going to end up with there is going to be absolutely phenomenal,” Heselgrave said. “It’s a cutting edge, 21st century learning design. It’s going to be wonderful for the kids. Fingers crossed it’ll end up on time, but it’s a tricky world right now.”
When construction is complete, the seismically upgraded school will include a new wing, teacher collaboration rooms, gender neutral washrooms and a standalone child care facility. The Lake Trail Community School Garden will remain in place.