Frankenmuth

12 Please stay tuned to the FSD website and Facebook page for updates on these exciting projects. We will also reach out directly to those affected by any particular construction activity. for Summer 2020 The "Scoop" T h e " S c o o p " In August of 2019, voters in the Frankenmuth School District approved the non-homestead operating millage and two capital improvement proposals – a 2.0 mill sinking fund renewal and a $15 million bond. The capital improvement projects will be completed across our entire campus over the next four years. This story highlights the 2020 improvements. Phil Martin's desk and computer are covered with studies, spreadsheets, construction plans, and bidding documents. Like many Frankenmuth School District staff, Phil wears many hats, and as a part of those varied duties, managing the upcoming capital improvements for the district will be a part of them. "The 2020 improvements will largely be focused outside – on parking, athletic facilities, paths, and roofs," explained Phil. "We need to get the exterior work done first to pave the way for some of the building additions taking place in subsequent years. It's sort of a domino effect. For example, we will be adding a new media center on the east side of Rittmueller. This project will mean the soccer practice field area will be re-purposed. So, we need to get the new turf soccer field completed so that it can be used full time for practices and games. If we're going to do the soccer turf field, it made sense to do the football turf field at the same time for construction efficiency and ultimately - cost savings." What's Going to be Constructed in 2020? East Athletic Complex Updates The district will construct a new turf soccer field. We will add a new restroom building, concession area, and team meeting rooms so that athletes can shelter in place during inclement weather. In addition, stadium type bleachers and new batting cages will be added to the softball and baseball fields. Pathways are planned to tie the entire east side facility together so soccer, baseball, softball and tennis will all be able to take advantage of these new amenities. Parking and Circulation A new parking lot will be added between List and Rittmueller. All K-8 students will board busses in this new area. At other times this lot can be used for parking 100+ vehicles for school, community, and athletic events. The older List Elementary parking lots will also be resurfaced. Phil Martin explained that the paving projects for this year are essentially an extension of the 2018 paving design and contract that resurfaced six other district lots. Paths and Sidewalks A significant feature of all of the outdoor improvements is to increase walkability, connectivity, safety, and accessibility. At the east athletic complex, paths and ramps will connect all facilities and allow for handicap accessibility between ball diamonds, parking, schools, restrooms, etc. Adele Martin commented, "We have grandparents who were not able to safely access the ball fields. These projects will fix that." Other important paths include: • A new quarter-mile path that will run from the tennis courts and extend behind the ball diamonds connecting to the parking area that is located north of the baseball field. • A designated walk path incorporated into the new parking lot connecting the existing Rittmueller parking lot to the List lot and allow students from both buildings to access the new bus area. Superintendent Martin explained the importance of this path, "Walkers and bikers will no longer have to walk across the entry drive to Rittmueller, increasing safety in that area." Roofs The high school gym roof will be replaced. It is the oldest roof in the district. Football Field The existing football field will be replaced with a synthetic turf field, increasing the safety and playability to the field.

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