Irma Lemus
BURBANK -- Preparing for major rebuilding projects at Burbank's two
public high schools, the school board has OKd a nearly $3-million
contract with a company to oversee the work.
San Fernando-based Bernard Bros. Construction Management was hired by
the board at its April 6 meeting. The company will oversee a slate of
projects and take four years to complete. The projects will cost an
estimated $95 million.
The work will begin in the fall, said Ali Kiafar, assistant
superintendent for planning, development and facilities. Kiafar said
Bernard Bros. will be paid $2.9 million to oversee the rebuilding
program.
The improvements and expansion at Burbank and John Burroughs high
schools will begin some three years after the 1997 passage of a local
bond issue, which earmarked $112.5 million for the modernization of all
Burbank schools.
"A lot of the other schools have been modernized or are close to
completion," Kiafar said. "This project took longer because it is a major
project that involves rebuilding and expanding the schools and not just
modernization." Kiafar said.
Both schools will have their auditoriums modernized while many other
parts of the campuses will be demolished and rebuilt, including
classrooms, lecture rooms, libraries and cafeterias. In addition, both
schools' swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts, softball and
soccer fields and parking facilities will also be rebuilt or expanded.
Kiafar said the district met with several construction firms and held
public meetings before selecting Bernard Bros. to oversee the work.
Architectural designs and construction plans have been submitted to the
state for approval, which is expected in the fall, Kiafar said.
Christine Shemanski, project support services manager for Bernard
Bros., said the firm will work closely with the district to keep students
and residents informed about the work in progress.
"This is a project that is of personal interest to us. I, myself, live
in Burbank, so we want the community to understand the process of
construction," Shemanski said.
She said the construction firm and the school district are planning
more public meetings in the coming months to let people know what's in
store.
School officials have made the high school rebuilding plans available
at the Media City Center mall, where they can be be viewed om front of
Macy's on the third floor. The plans are also on display at both schools.
For information, call the district office at 558-4600.
