The District 233 school board approved a major construction project that will improve security at the Homewood-Flossmoor High School South Building main entrance.
The board at its May 16 meeting awarded a $410,984 contract to Cosgrove Construction of Joliet for the work to be done over the summer months.
entrance to Homewood-Flossmoor High School.
(Provided image)
The District 233 school board approved a major construction project that will improve security at the Homewood-Flossmoor High School South Building main entrance.
The board at its May 16 meeting awarded a $410,984 contract to Cosgrove Construction of Joliet for the work to be done over the summer months.
The board has been working on this project for the past six months, said H-F Business Manager Ken Parchem.
The project has three major improvements:
- New entryway doors will be designed for a “man trap.” Once classes start, security guards will buzz guests and students in and out of the entrance. Existing security cameras will be updated to allow for facial recognition.
- Bollards will be installed around the area to prevent vehicles from smashing into the entry.
- Weatherization and energy-efficient glass will improve heat retention in the H-F entryway.
Parchem said architects designed the project so that it doesn’t change the look of the main entrance.
The school district has applied to the Illinois State Board of Education for approval to use life safety funds for the work. Parchem is hopeful the full amount of construction will be covered.
The bid has an additional $20,000 built in to cover unforeseen costs once walls are opened. Parchem is hopeful the district will get that money back.
“I’m glad we’re having this conversation on how we can improve safety for the students here at H-F,” said board member Steve Anderson.