South Putnam Schools receives update on construction projects

For the second straight month, the south Putnam school board received an update on renovations across the district by Fanning Howey and Michael Kinder & Sons (MKS). 

The projects, which come with a price tag of about $20 million, include a new fieldhouse at South Putnam Middle/High School, roof replacements across the district, a new weight room and wrestling room and upgrades at the football stadium, as well as the track and field surface at South Putnam High School.

"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. 

Andy Miller, of Fanney Howey, told the board he has received some cost information on the football field and the fieldhouse project is moving ahead. 

"We are working closely with Dr. Smith and the high school. We will come back next month and have eye candy to see. We are surpassing milestones every week and things are shaping up nicely," Miller told the board. 

Dr. Brandon Penrod, of EES Analytics, told the board bids for the football project were opened on Feb. 29 and Motz Group, out of Cincinnati, received the award for the project. 

Motz Group is responsible for the construction project at Paycor Stadium, home of the Cincinnati Bengals, Ohio State, Ohio University, Rose-Hulman University and multiple high schools. 

Penrod said work could start as early as next week with actual equipment on site by mid-April. 

"Everything looks like it will be done on July 31," Penrod said. 

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.