By Iktae Park
Staff Writer
The Manhattan Beach Unified School District board held a workshop regarding the final plan for the BB project on May 12.
The workshop displayed a time line for the project divided into three different phases. Phase one of the project will begin in June 2011, when a new math and science building will be constructed in the southern half of the upper staff parking lot.
New ventilation, electricity, phone and heating systems will be set in all buildings. Each classroom will provide space for a standard class of 36 students, although some teachers believe it won’t be enough space.
“I can’t wait to have enough room so my 43 students I have in every class are sitting on each other’s laps,” math Department chair Daniel Debevec said.
New parking lots will also be built on the Artesia side of the campus by relocating the tennis courts that are currently adjacent to the street. Phase one is estimated to be finished in August 2012.
“The relocation of the tennis courts will happen as a separate project. The parking lot will be then made on that area,” Project Manager Sylvia C. Wallis said.
Phase two of the project will begin with the renovation of the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s halls to hold Spanish, English, Cheer team, Dance team, Yearbook, and Student Government classes.
“The current layout is somewhat disjointed, but it worked. Changes could confuse students,” senior Rachel Bracker said.
Phase three of the project will be divided into three sub-phases. First, rooms seven to nine will be removed for a new multi-purpose room. Then, rooms three to six will be replaced by new orchestra and band rooms. Rooms one and two will be renovated to provide space for choir and drama.
“Having the entire music department in one area will increase our cohesiveness,” concert master for the Symphony Orchestra and sophomore Richard Wedeen said.
In the last sub-phase, a new commons with an amphitheater, Eco-land and food service will be built, replacing the 30s hall and the old office buildings.
With leftover funds, the school cafeteria will be renovated and a multimedia arts center will be constructed where the classrooms for ceramics, broadcast journalism and orchestra are currently located.
“I think new technologies are going to enhance the experience for everyone,” Vice Principal Paula Spence said.
The entire Measure BB Project is expected to be completed by summer of 2014.
“We’re trying to move people only once and make sure they have a place to go,” Wallis said.
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