Fort Hill – As of Oct. 14, work has begun on a crucial Graham County project.
In his report at the Graham County Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday, County Manager Jason Marino said Western Builders of Sylva had started work on securing the walls of the Robbinsville Elementary School Gym. The building has been closed since late spring, when it was found that the structure’s walls and floor were out of place.
In previous reports, Marino has discussed a plan to use structural steel to prevent the building’s walls from moving any further.
“We’re not tearing anything down, which I think is good news at the end of the day,” Marino said. “They’re going to weld some steel framing and anchor supports to structurally sound the brick facade on both sides of the walls in the gym, and hopefully that’s going to be the fix that we need in there.”
Marino said the would need to be some further work required for the bleachers and flooring before the gym would be ready to be used again. He said the work would likely be completed by the end of 2021, with the target being approximately 30-45 days. The project is approximately 35 percent complete.
The preschool near the gym has been allowed to reopen. However, its playground remains closed as a safety precaution.
Additionally, Marino said notice to proceed had been given on Oct. 4 for the Rural Development Authority Moose Branch subdivision project, with a groundbreaking scheduled for next week. He said the project contractor had agreed to the notice to proceed, as it became apparent that obtaining the needed materials and getting equipment to the site was possible. Ground is scheduled to be broken on Monday, Oct. 26.
“It’s been about a five-year project,” Marino said. “We’re getting started on it. It’s really exciting and a good thing.”
Vaccine drive
Marino also gave an updated on a planned COVID-19 vaccine initiative program that allows Graham County residents taking the shot to have $55 donated in their name to any of several youth programs. The program will be funded with a grant from the Dogwood Trust, plus $5,000 of American Rescue Plan funds approved by the board.
The program is scheduled to kick off on Nov. 13, with a mass vaccination event at Robbinsville High School.
“We’re looking forward to getting that kicked off as soon as possible,” Marino said.
Retiring Graham County EMS Director Larry Hembree and retiring paramedic Tim Creasman were also both presented with plaques, honoring their years of service.