This is the second in a series of reports to update the citizens
of Burbank about ongoing upgrades to our schools. To date,
construction activities have been successfully completed at eight
sites, including Ralph Emerson Elementary School. All of these
projects have been brought to fruition under budget and ahead of
schedule, thus providing for savings in expenditures, reducing
disruption to the day-to-day activities at the schools and allowing
students and staff to take advantage of the improvements earlier than
planned.
This has been achieved through diligent supervision and management
by the school district's facilities plan- ning staff. There is every
indication to suggest that the remaining projects will also be
completed under budget and ahead of schedule.
This report will touch on the enhancements at Emerson Elementary
School at 720 E. Cypress Ave. Construction work at Emerson started in
September 1998 and was completed in February 2000. Again, due to
savings realized, the district was able to implement additional
improvements above and beyond the originally planned scope of work.
The improvements resulted in a more modern school and created an
enhanced learning/teaching environment for students and teachers.
The replacement of the bungalow and trailers by a new two-story,
12-classroom building resulted in a larger playground and freed up
space for 22 parking spaces for staff. It has also eased congestion
and reduced class sizes, allowing for closer supervision of students
by teachers. Especially thrilling to teachers and staff are the new
teacher's lounge and independent workroom . Additionally, the
energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems utilize conservation
techniques. The following list enumerates the tasks performed at the
school. These tasks are categorized in two groups: those included in
the original scope and budgeted to be completed using bond money, and
additional improvements funded through the savings in conjunction
with funds from other sources.
Basic scope and modernization:
* Air conditioning installed in all classrooms.
* Electrical upgrades performed.
* All ceilings and lights repaired or replaced.
* Water and sewer upgrades conducted.
* Windows and glazing repaired or replaced.
* Existing restrooms repaired or renovated.
* Door hardware replaced to improve disabled access.
* New fire alarm system installed and fire department access
improved.
* Gutters and downspouts repaired or replaced.
* Technology conduit and raceways installed in all classrooms.
Additional enhancements and expansion:
* Interior work completed, including asbestos abatement, paint,
carpet, epoxy kitchen flooring, tack-board and casework refinish.
* Exterior of the building repainted.
* Existing lunch shelter and covered walkway seismically
retrofitted or replaced.
* Administration office remodeled and disabled access restrooms
added in the nurse's area.
* Parts of roof replaced and repaired.
* Playground slurry-sealed and re-striped.
* Additional cables and receptacle outlets provided for
technology improvements.
* Blinds, window coverings, stage drapes replaced.
In addition, a two-story classroom building was constructed at the
site.
The total construction cost was $5.10 million, of which $2.85
million was spent on modernization and $2.25 million on expansion
projects. The total savings were well over $420,000.
VIGEN GHAZIKHANIAN
Community Oversight
Committee Member
