The Dexter Leader
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Bond would score big points for athletic facility improvements
By Evelynn Shirk
PUBLISHED: April 17, 2008
In only a few weeks, residents of the Dexter Community School District will be asked to vote on a bond proposal totaling $47,890,000. This article highlights athletic field and facility projects as well as improvements to performance spaces and the purchase of instruments.The Wylie pool has been a popular resource for the schools and the community since 1991. The mechanical systems that control the air and water quality at the pool are original equipment and have reached their projected life expectancy. These mechanicals will be replaced because they no longer reliably protect those who use the pool. Pool gutters, handrails, starting blocks and diving boards are also original equipment and are slated for replacement. Professional consultants will provide guidance on energy and water conservation measures that can be incorporated into this project.
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The press box at Al Ritt Field was built in 1979 and will be replaced because it no longer provides an adequate space for personnel from Dexter and visiting schools. Wooden bleachers will be added to provide additional room for fans and guests. Bathroom facilities at the field cannot accommodate the number of guests who attend sporting events. A toilet building will be constructed at Al Ritt Field and the outdoor fields at Mill Creek and Dexter High School.The lower locker room at Creekside which is used by the football and club wrestling programs will be renovated to accommodate the number of athletes who use the space.
There are six tennis courts at Mill Creek that can no longer be used by students in physical education classes or the community. Cracks in the courts and other weather related damage make them a hazard for players. These will be replaced to make them available for future use.The gym bleachers at Creekside and at Wylie are the original bleachers. Creekside was built in 1956, Wylie in 1965. The bleachers have exceeded their life expectancy.
The locker room and shower room areas at DHS will be remodeled to accommodate the simultaneous use of both the pool and the gym. The change in sport seasons mandated in the fall of 2007 has further emphasized the need for this project.
The District purchases some instruments for student use in both the band and orchestra programs. The last purchase of instruments was made with the proceeds of the 1998 bond. The Board has concluded that it is time to replace and add instruments for our students.
Adding acoustic tiles to the Mill Creek band room is planned for this bond. Additional lighting will be installed on the CPA steps and aisles to provide for greater guest safety. For safety reasons as well, the cat walk will be enclosed. In addition, some of the CPA equipment will be upgraded to digital.
Complete information about bond projects can be found on the District's web site at www.dexter.k12.mi.us or by visiting the Superintendent's Office in the Copeland Administration Building. Representatives from the District will be happy to conduct group presentations about the bond. To arrange for such a presentation, call 424-4100, extension 1002.
Evelynn Shirk is the superintendent of Dexter Community Schools.
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