Photo Gallery: Whitnall Athletic Facilities Update

Work continues at on the district's new athletics facilities, a project that in many ways is ahead of schedule thanks to the mild winter.

Matt Karshna, the district's building and grounds supervisor, provided this report to the Whitnall School Board on Monday:

"There is nothing like an early spring in Wisconsin – a little sun a strong south breeze. And after another mild month we have made significant headway on the Concession/Restrooms/Team Room buildings. The exterior masonry, structural steel roof framing and roofing have been completed. If any board member is looking to take a tour now is the time to contact me to really get a feeling of the size and scope of the project. Our contractors have done an excellent job putting the pieces together and I would be happy to walk you around. Plumbing, mechanical and electrical trade work will begin work shortly and the concrete floors will be poured by the end of the month. But while the mild winter has allowed us to work ahead in one area another, the removal and replacement of the filed lights had to be held off.

"In a normal Wisconsin winter we would have been able to get equipment out on the field, but as you know this year has been an exception to the rule. Consequently the ground never really froze enough to drive a crane safety across. The old poles must come down and the new poles must go up before we can continue with the field work. It will be a challenge but not impossible to accomplish this and we are working up different scenarios to complete this task.

"In addition to the work occurring on site, the construction team continues to meet on a bi-weekly process to finalize finishing touches for the summer. Currently the team is reviewing scoreboard and site signage options with goal of these items being finalized by the end of the month.

"We now have confirmation form WE Energies that the primary line serving the High School will be moved to make way for the retaining wall south of the football field. Last year you will remember we moved the line by accident, this time it will be planned. Work will take one day and will begin on April 5th.

"Finally, over spring break we will be closing off the Northwest Gym Parking lot. Senior and staff parking will be rearranged and a notice will go soon. If the weather cooperates we will be complete with the majority of work in time for graduation."