Columbia High parking lot project sees delays

There were several reasons for the delays — from three weeks lost to a COVID-19 outbreak to minor changes in orders. And, as can happen with these types of projects, there were some previously unknown components found under the old parking lot.

“We found three really gigantic obelisks of concrete, which were too big to move,” Bell said. “It took us almost a week to bury them.”

Dry wells were discovered — along with some leaky pipes — as well as what Bell described as “some terribly decayed stormwater pipes,” all of which needed to be fixed before paving could continue. There was also a minor hiccup with a contractor’s equipment, and a few issues with signage and concrete work needing to be redone.

“Our contractor has been fantastic to work with, for the most part,” Bell said. “Do I wish we would have been on time? Absolutely so, but I do appreciate the fact that even though we were not done before the beginning of school, the district staff had figured out a workaround.”

“Everyone involved is working tirelessly to get the lot open as soon as possible,” Superintendent Rich Polkinghorn said at the Sept. 28 meeting. “However, we do not want to compromise any design or construction elements to get the lot open sooner than it is ready. We have reached a point of substantial completion — which is great — and there are still things to complete … I want you all to know that the partners involved on this project have been outstanding to work with.”

Polkinghorn said Oct. 13 that parking lot striping had been delayed due to weather and was anticipated to begin Oct. 18. The project is expected to take four days.

He also said that a sinkhole developed in the parent drop off/pick up late at Henkle Oct. 3; cause was determined to be from groundwater intrusion. Bell Design engineered a solution and the hole was filled. He said repaving that area will happen at a later date, once it is determined the issue has been resolved.