The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year. 

Schedule: The seven-room kindergarten building will be completed in July 2025.  The new multi-sport turf playing field will be delivered for school use later this summer, in August 2024.  

 

Site Work:

• New underground utilities installation continues, including sewer lines, inverts, and drainage lines.
• Ball-walls are complete and ready for paint.
• Tree wells, asphalt driveways, and fence posts along 16th Street are being installed.

Early Elementary Building:

• Underground utilities are installed in the foundations.
• Slab foundation is installed and cured.
• Steel posts and columns are being installed this week.

Turf Field:

• Turf field installation is complete.
• Goal posts are installed.
• The light pole's installation is scheduled for mid August 2024.

Teacher Access:

• The new gate from the teacher's parking lot is installed, with minor adjustments in progress.
• Electronic access system (Salto) software and controls are being installed, with training and operational validation underway.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

 

 

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year. 

Schedule - The seven-room kindergarten building will be completed in July 2025.  The new multi-sport turf playing field will be delivered for school use later this summer, in August 2024.  

 

Current Construction:

Site: New underground site utilities continue to be installed, including:

• New sewer lines
• Inverts and drainage lines
• Ball-walls
• Tree wells
• Site asphalt and fence posts installation this week

Early Elementary Building: Underground utilities installed in the foundations

• Slab foundation installed and curing
• Steel posts and columns to be installed next week

Turf Field: Turf field to be completely installed by the end of July 2024.

• Goal posts and other amenities to be added next week

Teacher Access Gate: Access gate from the teacher's parking lot is now installed

• Adjustments to the gate in this area are ongoing
• Electronic access (Salto system) software and controls are being installed
• Training and operational system validation and commissioning are in progress

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

 

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year.

Current Construction:

Site: New underground site utilities continue to be installed. These include new sewer lines and drainage lines with deep dry wells for onsite water infusion. Also, electrical buried conduits are being installed for the new building and site lighting.

Early Elementary Building: Reinforcement rebar is being installed in the foundation trenches in preparation for the placement of concrete foundation footings next week.

Turf Field: Underground waterlines, irrigation lines, and subsurface drainage basin are being installed prior to the final grading and compaction of the turf field. Concrete perimeter curb form work is being installed in preparation for concrete placement next week.

Staff Access Gate: The gate from the staff parking lot is now installed. There are a few adjustments to be made to the gate in this area. The electronic access system (Salto) and video phone are being installed this week and into next week.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year.

Noise and Dust Control:

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the noise and dust. We understand that demolition and construction activities generate both, and they take place during the daytime hours, on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We acknowledge that this time frame coincides with school hours, and construction crews are mindful of this.

To address concerns about dust and noise, contractors are working diligently to implement control measures. Crews are pleased to report that assessments have shown that noise levels remain within safe limits, not exceeding the 90 decibel safety standards.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

 

 

Current Construction:

 

Underground, jackhammers are still at work demolishing concrete footings, while removing them. Additionally, 341 truckloads of subpar soil have been extracted from the former grass field to clear space for the foundations of the upcoming building. These initial steps are crucial in laying the groundwork for both the new artificial turf field and the foundations of the early elementary building.

 

Excavation and recompacting efforts are underway beneath the artificial field, drainage basin, and the new building's foundation. Clean material is being brought in to fill low areas within the work zone. The contractor is presently engaged in recompacting and distributing soil, blending it with freshly imported soil to fortify the sub-base for both the building and the turf field. A Geotech engineering technician is diligently monitoring soil moisture and compaction levels, ensuring they meet the required standards. Following this assessment, a report will confirm the soil's readiness for building foundations. Final certification of the field is slated for the week's end.  Meanwhile, a survey team is pinpointing the precise location of the new building on the site. As part of the preparations, old underground utilities are being relocated and sealed off within the work zone, while new sewer, drainage lines, and buried electrical conduits are being installed for the forthcoming building.

 

Continued Work:

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A fresh pathway for teachers, staff, and students is being introduced, linking the 16th Street parking lot directly to the classrooms. Situated adjacent to the garden fence line, the new entrance gate provides convenient access to the site along the south side of Buildings U and Q. Currently, the contractor is in the process of crafting a brand-new entry gate along with an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking lot. This will serve as the primary entry point for teachers, staff, and students accessing the garden area. Equipped with a Salto card reader and buzzer, the gate installation is scheduled for completion this week, with the Salto system set to become operational by next week.
2. Temporary Restrooms: On March 23, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom building was delivered to the school site to cater to the needs of children and parents during after-school activities. This new facility comprises four separate restrooms: boys, girls, staff and adults, as well as an all-gender option. It serves as a replacement for the restroom previously situated near the basketball courts and ball-wall areas. The contractor has undertaken the necessary connections for water, power, fire alarms, sewer, and ramps for the new restroom building. Fire alarms have been integrated with the school's existing fire alarm system and thoroughly tested for functionality. The final touches, including the completion of the asphalt landing at the ramp and installation of a light pole, are pending. Once these tasks are finalized, the restroom will be fully operational and ready for use by August 2024. 
3. Site Demolition: As of April 20, 2024, the asphalt removal process has been successfully finalized. Soil excavation and removal commenced last week and has since been completed. The contractor is actively managing dust levels to ensure minimal disruption. Additionally, certain concrete footings are currently undergoing jackhammering to separate the concrete from the rebar.
4. Site Dirt Import: A total of 140 truckloads of dirt and gravel are being imported to replace the insufficient soil that was excavated from the site earmarked for the new building.
5. Site Utilities: The contractor is building pathways for the electrical feed to the new elementary building and exterior light poles.  Water meters and sewer lines are being connected from the street to the site. Underground water and sewer are being installed.
6. City Utilities Service: During spring break, the construction team collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to relocate pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and site utility connections along the 16th Street roadway. Completion of sidewalks and installation of new street markings will be scheduled for a later date in the summer, in alignment with the City of Santa Monica's plans.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

 

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year.

Noise and Dust Control:

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the noise and dust. We understand that demolition and construction activities generate both, and they take place during the daytime hours on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We acknowledge that this time frame coincides with school hours, and construction crews are mindful of this.

To address concerns about dust and noise, contractors are working diligently to implement control measures. Crews are pleased to report that assessments have shown that noise levels remain within safe limits, not exceeding the 90 decibel safety standards.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

Current Construction:

The contractor has finished removing the asphalt from the play area and basketball courts, although there are still some concrete footings underground that are being demolished and cleared with jackhammers. Additionally, three hundred truckloads of poor-quality soil from the old grass field have been removed to create space for the foundations of the new building. These initial steps are crucial for preparing the ground for the installation of the new artificial turf field and laying the foundations for the new early elementary building.

Unfortunately, heavy rain on March 28th to April 2nd and again from April 14th to April 16th caused a delay of 9 days in this process.

Excavation and recompacting are currently underway for the area beneath the artificial field, drainage basin, and the foundation of the new building. The contractor is now focusing on recompacting and spreading soil, combining it with new imported gravel to create a stronger sub-base for both the building and the turf field. On-site, a Geotech engineer is continuously monitoring the soil for appropriate moisture levels and compaction. Once the soil meets the required standards, a technician will provide a report confirming its readiness for building foundations.

As part of the project, old underground utilities are being relocated and capped off within the work zone, while some new underground utilities are being installed.

Continued Work:

A. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A new pathway has been established for teachers and staff to access the school from the 16th street parking lot directly to the classrooms. The entrance gate will be positioned adjacent to the garden fence line, providing convenient access to Buildings U and Q. The contractor is currently fabricating a state-of-the-art entry gate and an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking area. Completion of the ramp and paving is anticipated by the end of April 2024. This newly constructed pathway will serve as the primary entry point for teachers, staff, and students accessing the garden in the short term. Additionally, the entry gate will be equipped with a card reader and buzzer for added security and convenience.

B. Temporary Restrooms: On March 23, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom building was delivered to the school site to accommodate children and parents during after-school activities. This facility will feature four separate restrooms: boys, girls, staff and adults, and all-gender, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users. It serves as a replacement for the restroom that was previously situated near the basketball courts and the ball wall area. The contractor has diligently connected essential utilities such as water, power, fire alarms, sewer, and ramps to the new restroom building. The restroom is scheduled to be available for use by mid-April 2024, pending approval from inspectors regarding the fire alarms.

C. Site Demolition: The process of asphalt removal began on Feb. 26, 2024 and concluded on March 15, 2024. Currently, the team is continuing the removal of any remaining asphalt along the edges of the worksite. Additionally, soil excavation and removal commenced last week and is ongoing this week. To address concerns about dust, the contractor is implementing effective control measures, which are being monitored daily.

D. Site Dirt Import: Dirt and gravel will be imported using 100 trucks to replace the insufficient soil that was removed from the location where the future new building will be constructed, specifically the area of the large field.

E. Site Utilities: The contractor is building pathways for the electrical feed to the new Elementary Building and exterior light poles. Water meters and sewer lines are being connected from the street to the site.

F. City Utilities Service: The construction team has collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to reposition pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and connections for site utilities along the 16th Street roadway. This endeavor was successfully completed during spring break. Sidewalks and new markings will be finalized at a later date, in alignment with the city's schedule.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year.

Noise and Dust Control:

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the noise and dust. We understand that demolition and construction activities generate both, and they take place during the daytime hours, on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We acknowledge that this time frame coincides with school hours, and construction crews are mindful of this.

To address concerns about dust and noise, contractors are working diligently to implement control measures. Crews are pleased to report that assessments have shown that noise levels remain within safe limits, not exceeding the 90 decibel safety standards.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

Current Construction:

The contractor has finished removing the asphalt from the play area and basketball courts, although there are still some concrete footings underground that are being demolished and cleared with jackhammers. Additionally, three hundred truckloads of poor-quality soil from the old grass field have been removed to create space for the foundations of the new building. These initial steps are crucial for preparing the ground for the installation of the new artificial turf field and laying the foundations for the new early elementary building.

Unfortunately, heavy rain on March 28th to April 2nd and again from April 14th to April 16th caused a delay of 9 days in this process.

Excavation and recompacting are currently underway for the area beneath the artificial field, drainage basin, and the foundation of the new building. The contractor is now focusing on re-compacting and spreading soil, combining it with new imported gravel to create a stronger sub-base for both the building and the turf field. On-site, a Geotech engineer is continuously monitoring the soil for appropriate moisture levels and compaction. Once the soil meets the required standards, a technician will provide a report confirming its readiness for building foundations.

As part of the project, old underground utilities are being relocated and capped off within the work zone, while some new underground utilities are being installed.

Continued Work:

A. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A new pathway has been established for teachers and staff to access the school from the 16th street parking lot directly to the classrooms. The entrance gate will be positioned adjacent to the garden fence line, providing convenient access to Buildings U and Q. The contractor is currently fabricating a state-of-the-art entry gate and an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking area. Completion of the ramp and paving is anticipated by the end of April 2024. This newly constructed pathway will serve as the primary entry point for teachers, staff, and students accessing the garden in the short term. Additionally, the entry gate will be equipped with a card reader and buzzer for added security and convenience.

B. Temporary Restrooms: On March 23, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom building was delivered to the school site to accommodate children and parents during after-school activities. This facility will feature four separate restrooms: boys, girls, staff and adults, and all-gender, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users. It serves as a replacement for the restroom that was previously situated near the basketball courts and the ball walls area. The contractor has diligently connected essential utilities such as water, power, fire alarms, sewer, and ramps to the new restroom building. The restroom is scheduled to be available for use by mid-April 2024, pending approval from inspectors regarding the fire alarms.

C. Site Demolition: The process of asphalt removal began on Feb. 26, 2024 and concluded on March 15, 2024. Currently, the team is continuing the removal of any remaining asphalt along the edges of the worksite. Additionally, soil excavation and removal commenced last week and is ongoing this week. To address concerns about dust, the contractor is implementing effective control measures, which are being monitored daily.

D. Site Dirt Import: Dirt and gravel will be imported using 100 trucks to replace the insufficient soil that was removed from the location where the future new building will be constructed, specifically the area of the large field.

E. Site Utilities: The contractor is building pathways for the electrical feed to the new Elementary Building and exterior light poles. Water meters and sewer lines are being connected from the street to the site.

F. City Utilities Service: The construction team has collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to reposition pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and connections to site utilities along the 16th Street roadway. This endeavor was successfully completed during spring break. Sidewalks and new markings will be finalized at a later date, in alignment with the city's schedule.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) is excited to announce the commencement of the library renovation project at John Adams Middle School (JAMS). This initiative will introduce new outdoor study areas, enhanced by environmental lighting, and comfort air systems, alongside additional conference rooms.

This initiative aims to revitalize the current library space by integrating modern furniture such as movable bookshelves, tables, and chairs to create a cutting-edge student library. Additionally, the project includes the installation of a shaded outdoor learning deck and three new huddle/conference rooms to facilitate group collaboration.

Update:

The library modernization project is currently underway, with the Facility Improvement Project staff conducting weekly progress meetings with the contractor throughout the construction period. Temporary fencing and additional equipment have been installed in the area between the gym and the 16th Street fence line by the contractor. The library has been cleared of furniture and equipment and is now inaccessible to all staff and students until the start of the 2024-2025 school year.

The contractor has completed the demolition of interior walls to prepare for the upcoming changes inside. However, the process of opening up these walls has revealed unforeseen termite damage and structural deficiencies, which must be addressed before proceeding with the main scope of the project. The project's architect is currently designing corrective solutions for these issues. Meanwhile, the contractor is submitting products for approval and proceeding with the ordering of approved items that will be installed in the building. For instance, the air conditioning rooftop units for this project have been approved, with a manufacturing lead time of 12 to 14 weeks. They are currently being ordered and are scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2024.

Continued Work:

The demolition of the library interior has been finalized. The contractor has successfully removed the old drywall ceilings and drywall on the walls, as well as the plaster facing the outdoor courtyard. By removing these coverings, the team can now assess the condition of the interior walls, structural wood beams, and metal supports to ensure that they align with the design plans and current structural codes. The architect and structural engineer are offering guidance for addressing the structural repairs necessitated by the termite damage that was uncovered.

The contractor is currently undertaking the rough-in work for electrical circuits, new lighting, air conditioning and structural systems, as well as new wood framing. Additionally, they have placed an order for the rooftop air conditioning units.

Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding during the construction process.

For more information on JAMS campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in late December 2023, and currently, access to the eastern section of the outdoor play areas is restricted. The construction team is diligently working towards the completion of a new multi-sports turf playing field, scheduled for delivery later this year for school activities. Additionally, the kindergarten building is set to be completed in the 2024-2025 school year.

Noise and Dust Control:

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the noise and dust. We understand that demolition and construction activities generate both, and they take place during the daytime hours, on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We acknowledge that this time frame coincides with school hours, and construction crews are mindful of this.

To address concerns about dust and noise, contractors are working diligently to implement control measures. Crews are pleased to report that assessments have shown that noise levels remain within safe limits, not exceeding the 90 decibel safety standards.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

Current Construction:

The contractor has finished removing the asphalt from the play area and basketball courts, which involved the removal of 40 truckloads. Currently, some underground concrete footings are still undergoing demolition with jackhammers before being removed. Following this, the soil in the old grass field is being excavated and hauled away to prepare the ground for the foundations of the new building.

These preparations are crucial for laying the groundwork for the new artificial turf field and establishing the foundations for the new early elementary building. However, this work experienced a nine-day delay due to heavy rain occurring from March 28th to April 2nd, and again from April 14th to April 16th. On April 3, 2024, the contractor obtained permission from the receiving dumpsite to accept approximately 300 truckloads of exported soil from the school’s old large grass field. Currently, the contractor is transporting about 70 large truckloads of soil per day, which amounts to one truck being loaded every 10 minutes! Soil removal is expected to continue for the next two weeks. Excavation and recompacting for the area under the artificial field, drainage basin, and new building foundation are currently in progress.

Continued Work:

A. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A new pathway has been established for teachers and staff to access the school from the 16th street parking lot directly to the classrooms. The entrance gate will be positioned adjacent to the garden fence line, providing convenient access to Buildings U and Q. The contractor is currently fabricating a state-of-the-art entry gate and an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking area. Completion of the ramp and paving is anticipated by the end of April 2024. This newly constructed pathway will serve as the primary entry point for teachers, staff, and students accessing the garden in the short term. Additionally, the entry gate will be equipped with a card reader and buzzer for added security and convenience.

B. Temporary Restrooms: On March 23, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom building was delivered to the school site to accommodate children and parents during after-school activities. This facility will feature four separate restrooms: boys, girls, staff and adults, and all-gender, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users. It serves as a replacement for the restroom that was previously situated near the basketball courts and the ball wall area. The contractor has diligently connected essential utilities such as water, power, fire alarms, sewer, and ramps to the new restroom building. The restroom is scheduled to be available for use by mid-April 2024, pending approval from inspectors regarding the fire alarms.

C. Site Demolition: The process of asphalt removal began on Feb. 26, 2024 and concluded on March 15, 2024. Currently, the team is continuing the removal of any remaining asphalt along the edges of the worksite. Additionally, soil excavation and removal commenced last week and is ongoing this week. To address concerns about dust, the contractor is implementing effective control measures, which are being monitored daily.

D. Site Dirt Import: Dirt and gravel will be imported using 100 trucks to replace the insufficient soil that was removed from the location where the future new building will be constructed, specifically the area of the large field.

E. Site Utilities: The contractor is building pathways for the electrical feed to the new elementary building and exterior light poles. Water meters and sewer lines are being connected from the street to the site.

F. City Utilities Service: The construction team has collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to reposition pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and connections to site utilities along the 16th Street roadway. This endeavor was successfully completed during spring break. Sidewalks and new markings will be finalized at a later date, in alignment with the city's schedule.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in December 2023, resulting in restricted access to the eastern segment of the outdoor play areas. The construction team is diligently working on the development of a new multi-sports turf playing field, slated to be completed by 2024.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

Current Construction: 

The contractor has successfully completed the removal of asphalt from the play area and basketball courts, requiring a total of 40 truckloads. Subsequently, they have begun excavating and removing soil from the grass field to prepare for the foundation of the new building. These initial steps are crucial for the installation of the new artificial turf field and the establishment of foundations for the upcoming early elementary building.

Unfortunately, progress was temporarily halted for six days due to heavy rain from March 28, 2024, to April 2, 2024. However, we have since received permission from the receiving dumpsite on April 3, 2024, allowing us to dispose of approximately 300 truckloads of soil excavated from the school's old grass field.

Currently, the contractor has commenced hauling soil at a rate of about 70 truckloads per day, with work expected to continue for the next two weeks. Simultaneously, excavation and recompacting for the artificial field and drainage system are underway, ensuring steady progress towards our construction goals.

Continued Work:

A. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A new pathway has been established for teachers and staff to access the school from the 16th street parking lot directly to the classrooms. The entrance gate will be positioned adjacent to the garden fence line, providing convenient access to Buildings U and Q. The contractor is currently fabricating a state-of-the-art entry gate and an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking area. Completion of the ramp and paving is anticipated by the end of April 2024. This newly constructed pathway will serve as the primary entry point for teachers, staff, and students accessing the garden in the short term. Additionally, the entry gate will be equipped with a card reader and buzzer for added security and convenience.

B. Temporary Restrooms: On March 23, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom building was delivered to the school site to accommodate children and parents during after-school activities. This facility will feature four separate restrooms: boys, girls, staff and adults, and all-gender, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all users. It serves as a replacement for the restroom that was previously situated near the basketball courts and the ball walls area. The contractor has diligently connected essential utilities such as water, power, fire alarms, sewer, and ramps to the new restroom building. The restroom is scheduled to be available for use by mid-April 2024, pending approval from inspectors regarding the fire alarms.

C. Site Demolition: The process of asphalt removal began on Feb. 26, 2024 and concluded on March 15, 2024. Currently, the team is continuing the removal of any remaining asphalt along the edges of the worksite. Additionally, soil excavation and removal commenced last week and is ongoing this week. To address concerns about dust, our contractor is implementing effective control measures, which are being monitored daily by a testing agency using specialized equipment.

D. Site Dirt Import: Dirt and gravel will be imported using 100 trucks to replace the insufficient soil that was removed from the location where the future new building will be constructed, specifically the area of the large field.

E. Site Utilities: The contractor is building pathways for the electrical feed to the new Elementary Building and exterior light poles. Water meters and sewer lines are being connected from the street to the site.

F. City Utilities Service: The construction team has collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to reposition pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and connections to site utilities along the 16th Street roadway. This endeavor was successfully completed during spring break. Sidewalks and new markings will be finalized at a later date, in alignment with the city's schedule.

During demolition and construction there may be instances of loud noise, often due to the use of heavy equipment. However, please rest assured that the construction team is dedicated to minimizing disruptions as much as possible. They are committed to working swiftly to reduce the duration of any noise disturbances.

To address concerns about dust and noise, contractors are working diligently to implement control measures. Crews are pleased to report that assessments have shown that noise levels remain within safe limits, not exceeding the 90 decibel safety standards.

We value your patience and understanding as we progress through the construction phase.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.

The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District is excited to share that construction at Will Rogers Learning Community is underway. The initiative will introduce seven state-of-the-art transitional kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms, alongside a brand-new artificial turf multi-sports field. Additionally, the project encompasses the creation of outdoor natural learning areas adjacent to the new classrooms, as well as the installation of new basketball courts, handball walls and various other amenities.

Update:

Construction commenced in December 2023, resulting in restricted access to the eastern segment of the outdoor play areas. The construction team is diligently working on the development of a new multi-sports turf playing field, slated to be completed by 2024.

Environmental Safety Note:

Most school construction projects, both in the state and nationwide, incorporate an asbestos abatement phase. We adhere strictly to environmental regulations, which mandate testing prior to commencement of construction. In a recent case, asbestos was detected within the tar content, sandwiched between layers of asphalt. Similar to older homes or buildings where asbestos remains inert and occupants live without health risks, the asbestos found in this instance posed no threat as there was no potential pathway for exposure. The asbestos content originated from adhesive used to bind a layer of asphalt to another during a maintenance endeavor conducted decades ago. Proper removal procedures necessitate that workers adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, donning protective suits and masks. Importantly, students and staff are not exposed to this material as it is encapsulated within the tar of the asphalt. Site monitors diligently record air samples and dust content, and work halts whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph.

Current Construction:

The contractor has finished removing the asphalt from the play area and basketball courts, necessitating the use of 40 truckloads. Next, the soil in the grass field will undergo excavation and removal to create space for the foundations of the new building. These initial steps are crucial for preparing the groundwork for the upcoming artificial turf field and laying the foundations for the new early elementary building. Currently, the contractor is in the process of obtaining permission from the designated dumpsite to accept around 200 truckloads of soil extracted from the large grass field.

Continued Work:

A. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Ramp and Access: A fresh pathway will be established for teachers and staff, connecting the 16th street parking lot directly to the classrooms. The new entry gate will be positioned near the garden fence line, granting access to the site through Buildings U and Q. The contractor is currently engaged in installing the new entry gate along with an ADA-compliant access ramp from the staff parking lot. Completion of the ramp and paving is anticipated by the end of March 2024. Following spring break, this upgraded pathway will serve as the designated entrance for teachers and staff.

B. Temporary Restrooms: On March 3, 2024, a semi-permanent restroom facility was transported to the school premises to serve students and parents during after-school events. This new addition replaces the previous restroom located near the basketball courts and ball walls. Presently, the contractor is in the process of connecting water, power, fire alarms, sewer lines, and ramps to facilitate the functionality of the new restroom building.

C. Site Demolition: The process of removing asphalt began in late February 2024 and concluded by mid-March 2024. Soil excavation and removal are slated to commence during the spring break period and may entail occasional loud noises. The construction team is committed to minimizing disruptions and will strive to expedite the work to reduce the duration of noise. Dust control measures are being implemented by the contractor, with daily monitoring conducted by a testing agency using specialized equipment.

D. Site Utilities: The contractor is constructing pathways for the electrical supply to the new elementary building as well as for the exterior light poles.

E. City Utilities Service: The construction team has collaborated with the City of Santa Monica to rearrange pedestrian crosswalks, driveways, and connections to utility sites. This project is scheduled to commence during the spring break period and will primarily affect the 16th Street roadway. Closure of the street is planned from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, students will not be affected as they will be away during the spring break. 

Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding during the construction process.

For more information on Rogers campus projects, please contact Simpson & Simpson Consultant Senior Construction Operations Liaison Chris Emmett at cemmett@smmusd.org.