Mother Nature Frowns On Simsbury School Project Groundbreaking — Again

SIMSBURY, CT — Local school officials just can't get a break with the weather when it comes to the Latimer Lane Elementary School building project.

School officials announced Monday morning that due to the snow and a delayed school opening, a planned groundbreaking ceremony was canceled.

This comes a few days after the ceremony was moved from Dec. 9 to today due to a wind and rainstorm last week.

A new date for a groundbreaking hasn't been announced, but there will be a referendum next month for some added funds required for the multi-million building addition/renovation.

In May 2021, voters said yes to a large expansion project at the school — which is actually located at 33 Mountain View Drive, Weatogue — to the tune of $36.7 million.

This year, however, it was determined that inflation-causing supply chain issues, which have impacted most construction projects, are also impacting this one.

As a result, a referendum is slated for Jan. 7, 2023 for an additional $2.26 million to supplement what's already been approved. Poll times are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. that day.

"Apart from a roof replacement, Latimer Lane Elementary School hasn’t received any major upgrades since it was originally constructed in 1962," wrote the Simsbury School System.

"This 24-month, multi-phase project will give the children of Simsbury a 21st century educational experience."

According to the town, the 68,500 square feet of additions and renovations will allow for programmatic changes and address Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility issues, building envelope and structural systems technology as well as new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.

It will also feature upgraded food service, library/media center and nursing/health services.
The project was designed by Tecton Architects, of Hartford. O&G Industries of Torrington is the construction manager.

From Dec. 6: 'Simsbury Reschedules School Project Groundbreaking'

For the official notification of the Jan. 7 referendum on the project, click on this link.