Excavation Begins as Old Oliver Springs High School Heads for Demolition

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News Summary

The old Oliver Springs High School is set for demolition, paving the way for new educational facilities in Roane County.

Excavation Begins as Old Oliver Springs High School Heads for Demolition

In a significant step towards community development, the old Oliver Springs High School building is slated for demolition, with excavators and loaders set to commence work imminently. This decision comes as part of a larger initiative to improve educational facilities in Roane County, marked by the construction of a new gymnasium that promises to bring fresh opportunities for students.

Secure Site and Asbestos Remediation

To ensure safety and security during the demolition process, a perimeter fence has been erected around the school grounds. The Roane County Director of Schools, Russell K. Jenkins, confirmed that as of the latest updates, a substantial 50% of the asbestos originally present in the building has been successfully removed. Asbestos, a known hazard in older buildings, necessitates thorough remediation before any heavy construction can take place.

With the initial asbestos removal complete, the focus shifts to internal demolition tasks. These involve the careful extraction of wiring, piping, and other recyclables that could be salvaged from the building. Only after these preliminary steps are finished will the active demolition phase commence, ensuring compliance with safety standards throughout the project.

Complete Demolition Services on the Job

The project has been entrusted to Complete Demolition Services, a company equipped to manage the various aspects of the demolition. Dust control measures have been planned, highlighting the commitment to maintaining air quality in the vicinity during the demolition. The contractor is required to vacate the site within 120 days of starting work, a timeline that underscores the urgency and importance of this project for the community.

Combining Schools for Improved Utilization

This demolition is a direct result of a decision made by the Roane County Board of Education, which opted to merge the middle school with the high school to maximize resource utilization. The previous utilization rates revealed the middle school was operating at a 34% capacity, a stark contrast to the high school, which was at approximately 66% utilization. This combination has successfully transitioned into the newly established Oliver Springs Academy.

Future Plans for the Repurposed Land

Once the demolition is complete, the land where the old high school currently stands presents an opportunity for future development. There is potential for the area to be transformed into practice fields and additional parking, effectively serving the needs of the combined school and enriching the educational experience for students.

Preservation Efforts for Historical Sites

While the old high school fades into history, an earlier preservation effort continues for the Oliver Springs Southern Railroad Depot. This historical site is included in the East Tennessee Preservation Alliance’s Endangered 8 list, highlighting its significance as a center of community activity dating back to its establishment around 1892. The depot played a crucial role during the heyday of the Oliver Springs Resort Hotel and the coal production era.

Having been saved from potential demolition in the 1980s by dedicated community members, the depot has since been repurposed as the Oliver Springs Library and Museum. However, the building now requires significant repairs, including roof maintenance and containment of lead-based paint. The East Tennessee Preservation Alliance is actively calling on local leaders to seek necessary funding to ensure the depot’s continued presence in the community.

Community Engagement and Upcoming Events

In related community news, local events continue to thrive in the Roane County area, supported by various recreational activities and seasonal events. The Oak Ridge Outdoor Pool will close for the season soon, while the Indoor Pool is set to reopen after renovations, reflecting the community’s ongoing commitment to provide facilities for leisure and health. Upcoming events include Independence Day celebrations, outdoor festivals, and captivating storytelling festivals, which promise to enrich the local cultural landscape.

As the old Oliver Springs High School prepares to make way for new beginnings, the Roane County community looks forward to fostering growth, opportunities, and the preservation of its historical roots.