A groundbreaking for the Iola school district’s new elementary school, planned for April, likely will be delayed because of the social distancing rules caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The project itself, though, remains on track, USD 257 board president Dan Willis said.
Construction is considered “an essential function” and likely won’t be affected by the various restrictions related to the coronavirus outbreak.
Much of the work underway now is still related to the planning and design, as the various entities involved prepare for construction. The projects — a new elementary school, a new science and technology building with a cafeteria at Iola High School, and new heating and cooling systems at Iola Middle School — will be let for bids soon.
SJCF Architects, the Wichita firm overseeing the planning and design of the school, is now working remotely.
Construction manager Coonrod & Associates, Wichita, is preparing to let part of the project out for bids. 
First up will be demolition of existing buildings at the elementary school site at Kentucky and Monroe streets, and of the existing maintenance building at the high school. Asbestos will need to be remediated from buildings at each site. The maintenance building will need remediated from a licensed asbestos contractor, Willis said. Issues include areas including exterior windows with caulk and glazing, caulk on doors and floor tile. Existing buildings on the elementary school site have fewer problem areas, but asbestos was found in door caulk, window glazing, black roof tar and cement shingles.
“I wouldn’t call the report surprising,” Willis said. “Findings were in line with buildings that were constructed in the 1940s and ’50s.”
Meanwhile, city officials are reviewing a traffic study that was recently completed. Final recommendations will be made at a later date, Willis said.
THE ECONOMIC downturn could result in lower costs, as construction company costs and materials may be more competitive, Willis said.
“So far the building estimates are in line with projections, so we think we’ll be able to accomplish all we wanted to get done,” Willis said.
