Work on the elementary building project is continuing at a better-than-anticipated pace.

On Wednesday, architects Randy Fromberg, Bob Shelton, and Drew Cummings met once more with elementary teachers and staff, to finalize design plans. Blanco Elementary cafeteria staff was also consulted on plans for the new cafeteria.

“Things are coming right along ,” said superintendent Dr. Buck Ford. “I am pleased with the progress we have made with this project.”

Some demolition work was begun this week on the historical building. The purpose of the demolition is to expose some of the interior areas, in order to assist the architect and construction manager in finalizing their plans.

Construction manager Tom Rehak of Vanguard Contractors said, “The design team is doing a great job. I commend the design team for meeting with the teachers and administration so everyone understands the designs and finishes.”

“Demolition should help with design details, as we have the opportunity to uncover and evaluate existing construction materials.”

“Communication is the key to success on any project. Wednesday’s meeting was very valuable to everyone involved.”

Architect Randy Fromberg said, “We have accelerated our schedule to get the plans completed about a month earlier than we originally anticipated. This will let the Contractor finish earlier, and facilitate occupying the new buildings over the Christmas break of 2012.”

“There are always surprises in an old building. On our visit Wednesday, we discovered a masonry archway that had been concealed above the ceiling. There was also some “graffiti” from the 1930’s etched into the stone walls that I had not seen before.”

More extensive demolition and construction is expected to begin in late November.