Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the closing of schools, construction at City High has not stopped. Driving by City High, one can see big cranes in the right corner of the school. Even though the school year ending may be disappointing for some students, it has allowed the construction project to move faster and get ahead of schedule.

“We have moved up the summer phase of the project,” Assistant Principal Scott Jespersen said.

Social distancing recommendations have not stopped construction because it is considered an essential project. Workers have to take the appropriate precautions when it comes to the health of everyone in the project, which includes wearing personal protective equipment and practicing social distancing. 

 Jespersen clarified the safety protocol that the workers are currently following, “We have district protocols that we ask them to follow. [The protocols] are set by the district and the construction companies.”

 Although some materials have been redistributed because of the need for more personal protective equipment and other medical equipment, all materials needed for construction have not been affected as they have already been ordered. 

According to Jespersen, construction is still expected to finish in the fall of 2021. The next subproject of the construction is dealing with the air conditioning system and environmental concerns.

“The next step is to decrease our carbon footprint. The old building is being renovated with a new heating and cooling system, and a sprinkler system. They are also abating large areas of the school,” Jespersen said.