At its regular monthly meeting on August 21, the Florence School District 3 Board of Trustees approved three major projects: renovations at Ward Memorial Stadium, fire alarm upgrades across most schools and new kindergarten playground equipment at three schools.
Ward Memorial Stadium Renovations
The board reviewed two renovation options for Ward Memorial Stadium before voting to move forward with Option A. This plan includes:
- A new metal, site-built fieldhouse,
- A modular concessions and restroom facility,
- Ticket booths on both the home and visitor sides,
- New stadium lighting, and
- A new scoreboard.
The total estimated cost of Option A is $4,228,375. While Option B, estimated at $2,842,935, included a modular fieldhouse instead of a site-built structure, the board chose Option A because the metal, site-built facility offers greater durability and many more years of service.
Funding for the project will come from a combination of Special Obligation Bond funds, General Obligation Bond funds remaining from a previous year, and general funds. Renovations are expected to be completed in time for the 2025–2026 football season.
Fire Alarm Upgrades
The board also approved $2.68 million to replace aging fire alarm systems at J. C. Lynch Elementary, Lake City Early Childhood Center, Main Street Elementary, Dr. Ronald E. McNair Junior High, J. Paul Truluck Creative Arts and Science Magnet School, Lake City High and the District Office.
These upgrades are necessary because replacement parts for the current systems are increasingly difficult to find. Schools with newer fire alarm systems - Olanta Creative Arts and Science Magnet, Scranton Elementary STEAM Academy, and the Graham Road campus - will not require upgrades at this time.
Funding will come from Special Obligation Bonds and state school safety grant funds.
Playground Improvements
In addition, the board approved $200,936.83 in Special Obligation Bond funds to replace unusable kindergarten playground equipment at J.C. Lynch Elementary, Scranton Elementary and Olanta Magnet School.
Existing equipment was taken out of service earlier this year after the rubberized safety coating began to wear away, exposing bare metal.
Future Projects
The board is continuing to evaluate additional districtwide improvement projects, including LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, roof repairs, electrical system upgrades, and new building automation systems. These projects are focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing long-term operational costs.