Laurelhurst Elementary To Undergo Improvements This Summer

Today is the last day of school at Laurelhurst Elementary.

And unlike other summers, where it's pretty quiet all summer on school grounds, this summer there will be construction inside and outside the school all summer.

Some upgrades will be:

• installing new energy efficient windows throughout the main building
• upgrading the heating system  by putting in a new boiler 
• replacing the water lines
• play court roof replacement
• installing new window shades
• replacing some sinks

"We are very excited to be receiving these capital improvments, since our building was built in the late 1920s, so there is much that could use updating," Susan from the school says in a mailing.

In a letter sent to families a few weeks ago Principal Kathy Jolly says, "Good news! This summer our school will benefit from the Buildings, Technology and Academics II (BTA II) Levy approved by Seattle voters in 2004.

This levy pays for many needed small renovations and major maintenance projects in our school buildings. It also provides funds for improvements to technology and academic support infrastructure.

We can all look forward to an improved school in September."

You can learn more about these projects and the BTA II levy here.

Information was left on doors of immediate neighbors doors a few days ago saying: "The type of work should cause minimal disruptions and be assured that we will make eveery effort to be conscientious of our valued neighbors. Seattle Public Schools and Laurelhurst Elementary thank you for your support and understanding during construction."

And if you have questions or concerns about the School project, you can contact the project manager, Mike Skutack, at 206-252-0669 or mskutack@seattleschools.org.

Contractors and their crew will being work this Friday, June 25th,  and no one will be allowed to enter the school outside of the workmen.  Construction will wrap up on August 31st.

Also St. Stephens Church just down the street from the school on the corner of NE 45th Street and 48th Avenue NE started exterior painting yesterday.

"Because of the age of our building and the possible presence of lead paints, we are taking every precaution to ensure the health and safety of our parishioners and neighbors.

You will see cautionary signage that we encourage you to obey. We have every confidence that no danger is presented by the work," a recent newsletter says.