By Kate Robak
Calendar Editor
Mira Costa’s Measure BB construction project, which began in December 2011, is progressing ahead of schedule into the 2012-13 school year.
The Measure BB construction project consists of three phases. The first phase includes the construction of the new math and science building, parking lots and a mixture of other small improvements to the school. Currently, about 20% of the first phase is complete, according to Mira Costa Principal Dr. Ben Dale.
“We are ahead of schedule and under budget,” Dale said. “As of now, construction is running smoothly.”
The primary structure for the math and science building has been completed. Concrete walls and a metal deck will soon be placed on the first floor. The building is expected to be completed by August 2013.
“Experts on the project told me that everyone breathed a little easier once the site was excavated, the foundation was built and everything was set for construction of the structure,” Manhattan Beach Unified School District Deputy Superintendent Rick Bagley said. “This isn’t to say we won’t still have challenges, but I am told that the actual building will be a lot more predictable than it was in the early stages when the foundations were being placed.”
According to Bagley, the payments the district owes toward its debt are greater than what the current budget allows for, but the MBUSD Board of Trustees is aware and prepared to cover the cost.
“My biggest concerns are keeping things moving along, on schedule and on budget,” Bagley said. “That being said, there are always things to worry about on a project like this, and I suppose I won’t stop worrying about them until everything is all done.”
Currently, no classrooms have been displaced for construction. Starting next year, some classrooms will be moved into the new math and science building.
“It has been a little overwhelming for students and teachers because the noise from construction is really loud,” sophomore Allison Doami said. “Class discussions are harder, especially in the
English rooms which are right next to the construction site.”
The next phase in the construction process consists of updating 13 school buildings located around the Mira Costa campus. The first modernizations of these buildings are complete.
“With the number of details involved, there will always be many little things that don’t work as planned,” Bagley said. “Fortunately, we have some very smart, talented and experienced people doing all of this work. We have great confidence in them and know that they will successfully handle the many challenges that will inevitably come up.”
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