Two rows of seats in the back center section of the Heginbotham Auditorium were removed and replaced with a cement pad to accommodate wheelchair seating for events in the facility. The area will be left open in order to be used for both wheelchairs and folding chairs as needed. — The Holyoke Enterprise | Johnson Publications
Remodel adds fresh touch, new look to JR/SR high
Students, staff and visitors to Holyoke JR/SR High School will have some adjusting to do as they navigate the redesign completed this summer as part of the Building Excellent Schools Today project.
Superintendent Kyle Stumpf said he is most excited about the Americans with Disabilities Act compliance that was accomplished in the project.
With the new elevator, all students will be able to get to the big gym to participate in physical education. Additionally, accommodations for handicapped seating in the auditorium will be a huge item for attendance at concerts, plays and other activities in the auditorium.
Entry access to the old gym from the school hallway has also been enhanced with a ramp leading to the door.
Shipping delays that were beyond anyone’s control occurred the last week of July to postpone the full completion of the project.
School will start as scheduled, but due to unprecedented circumstances, full completion will be delayed.
The district plans to host an open house for the public. At this point, they’re hoping to plan something during Homecoming week the first week of October. Further details will be announced and planned closer to the time.
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