Canada Day flooding in Yorkton has caused costly damages and closures in the city - among the casualties being the Yorkton Regional High School. However, according to Good Spirit School Division (GSSD) Director Dwayne Reeve, the school will be up and running in time for classes next week.
Since flood waters hit the school has been the subject of an extensive clean-up and restoration effort with numerous areas affected including the basement, the mechanical room, which houses the boilers, water heaters and various electrical equipment.
Clean up efforts have been focused on safety says Reeve and on getting duct work and air handling equipment up and running efficiently in order to ensure proper disposal of environmental contaminants.
"An environmental consultant from Saskatoon performed air quality testing this past week at the high school and has confirmed that the facility is sound and ready to resume normal school activities. We are extremely happy to report that the restoration efforts throughout the summer have gotten us to this point where we will not have to alter the school year."
Over the next few days, adds Reeve, the facility will continue to be monitored to ensure complete safety before its opening which is slated for August 30.
Also damaged was the gymnasium floor which experienced seepage and high humidity. This area has been screened, refinished and sealed.
"The floor will be retested again and again in approximately six months to ensure no permanent damage has occurred." Also says Reeve, a classroom in the lower library remains under construction but should be up and running prior to Monday.
Post August 30 work is slated but will involve the basement area, some offices and storage.
This work should be complete by mid to late September and will have no effect on classes.
"A major restoration company from Ontario was tasked with the majority of the clean-up and has done a great job," assures Reeve.
"Also a special thank you to Jared Edwards and our YRHS facilities staff as well as, Teresa Korol, GSSD Facilities manager, who have dedicated countless hours to this unexpected summer project. We are currently working with Stantech Consultants, Yorkton Plumbing and Nixon Electric in the final stages of refurbishment. Throughout the summer, our focus has been to ensure a safe environment for staff and students and goal has been reached."
