South Putnam projects continue moving along

It is full speed ahead on various construction projects on the South Putnam campus, according to officials from Fanning Howey and Michael Kinder & Sons (MKS). 

At this week's school board meeting, officials said the projects, which come with a price tag of about $20 million and include a new fieldhouse at South Putnam Middle/High School, roof replacements, a new weight room and wrestling room, and upgrades at the football stadium and track and field surface at South Putnam High School, gave another update. 

Officials with Fanning Howey said the district is "down to the homestretch as far as design goes on the projects." Currently, 95 percent of the design work for the fieldhouse is done. Officials have a May 23 deadline for completing design documents, which would set the project up for a June bidding process. 

Fanning Howey's official said they have received and reviewed a design development cost analysis with MKS. The analysis came in $150 thousand over budget, which officials from Fanning Howey said was "not that bad on a $20 million project." In addition, officials said they are working hard to wrap up the documents and have a list of alternates to protect the budget. 

The track and field project has also seen a lot of progress being made, according to officials. 

There were no questions from the board, but South Putnam Superintendent Dr. Corey Smith said he remains "thrilled" with what is taking place. 

"I am particularly thrilled about the upgrades being made as part of this project. Fanning Howey and MKS have been invaluable partners in the planning and development process. Their dedication and hard work have been evident as they've collaborated with us to bring this vision to life while staying within budget constraints.Though there have been compromises and difficult decisions throughout the project, as is typical with endeavors of this magnitude, we are moving forward with confidence," South Putnam Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Smith told The Putnam County Post. 

Smith said it is evident the project will transform South Putnam's facilities. 

"Not only will it enhance learning environments, but it will also create new opportunities for student engagement and participation district-wide. The fieldhouse, track and field updates and new outdoor lighting are just a few of the visual highlights, alongside crucial updates addressing deferred maintenance such as roofing at Central Elementary and the Middle School/High School, as well as pool renovations," Smith said.