Bad weather may delay school work

Cranbury School expansion may take longer than expected.

By: Matt Kirdahy
   The new Cranbury School expansion might take a little longer than expected.
   The school board is considering giving builder G&P Parlamus more time to complete the project because of inclement weather, but board members still are hoping for a September completion.
   "We’re moving in the right direction and we’ll be pleased with the final result in September," Chief School Administrator Carol Malouf said at the board meeting Tuesday.
   The $7.3 million, 36,000-square-foot addition, which was approved by voters in a $5.9 million referendum in January 2002, will include a new gymnasium and seven new classrooms. The state has promised $1.4 million in aid to cover the rest of the costs.
   Because of icy weather between December and April, Parlamus was unable to work consecutive days and was thrown off its schedule.
   The board said Parlamus reported a quick recovery once the weather conditions improved heading into spring, and so board members are still confident the project could be done before the next school year.
   Board member Frank Ransegnola, who heads the school expansion committee, said the board is not granting Parlamus the contract extension yet because there is still some time.
   As a safety net, Ms. Malouf and Bovis, the company hired to oversee the building project, are looking into a temporary certificate of occupancy, which would permit use of the classrooms upon completion despite the ongoing construction of the gymnasium.
   "(Parlamus) is asking for more time," Mr. Ransegnola said. "The company is not sure how much time it would need so we’re putting this plan in place until it does."
   The temporary certificate of occupancy would assure the safety of the students and the proper function of everything from electricity to fire sprinklers.
   The classrooms will be completed first, followed by the lobby, administrative rooms and the gymnasium.
   According to Ms. Malouf, Parlamus will determine what additional work must be completed to obtain the temporary certificate of occupancy in August.
   Mr. Ransegnola said granting an extension would not cost the school district more money.