Berea Community Schools breaks ground on multi-use building

Sierra Marling, Richmond Register, Ky.
·1 min read

Feb. 18—Sierra Marling

Berea Community Schools has broken ground on, and are in the process of undergoing construction for, the development of a multi-purpose building on their campus.

School officials said the pre-engineered metal building will measure 50 x 120 feet with the potential for future expansion. The total cost is estimated to be $943,415.30.

According to Berea Community Schools Superintendent Diane Hatchett, the first phase of the project is being covered with Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds — funds disbursed to schools through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act — and is scheduled to be completed in July 2023.

Hatchett explained the multi-use building will have many capabilities, such as storing band equipment and holding sports practices, and will make a great resource for a variety of campus students and personnel.

Hatchett also said the project will support student health needs due to its design, which will facilitate social distancing, reducing the risks of virus transmission and exposure to environmental health hazards. The building will also be used for special education purposes and allow students to complete therapeutic activities in a comfortable campus space.

"We believe that the building will be a tremendous asset to our school district. The building will eventually be a place for such things as batting cages, storage, weights, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, to name a few. Phase Two will include things like wiring, HVAC, bathrooms, and office space. We anticipate that Phase Two could take an additional year to complete. This is all part of our district facilities plan. We are looking forward to the opportunities that this building has the potential to provide for Berea Community Schools in the years to come," Hatchett said.