Demolition begins at Arcadia and Coronado high schools

A track hoe demolishes Arcadia High School’s auditorium.

A track hoe demolishes Coronado High School's baseball field.

Hard hats, track hoes, dump trucks and construction crews are just some of the new sights at Arcadia and Coronado high schools this summer – which officially marks the start of Phase I construction at the schools.

Demolition crews at Arcadia High School have razed the faculty and student parking lots, racquet ball courts and are in the process of demolishing the auditorium. The crews at Coronado High School have demolished the tennis and handball courts and the junior varsity and varsity baseball fields.

“These summer projects allow us to complete some key demolition and prep work, said Dr. Bill Johnson, chief of facilities for learners. “When school starts on August 22, we’ll be prepared for students and staff to return to a safe and productive learning environment.”

Last November, voters approved the $217 million bond to modernize Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado and Saguaro high schools, make improvements to Desert Mountain High School, begin Phase II construction at Sierra Vista Academy and purchase land and buses.

Editor’s note: SUSD will keep you posted on construction progress at our schools throughout the summer and 2005-2006 school year. If you would like to take photos of the demolition at Arcadia or Coronado high schools, please contact the Communications Department at 480-484-6158.

Remember Start Smart on August 22nd !