As recently as two months ago, the DC Department of General Services had estimated Hearst Elementary’s second and final addition would be complete around this time, and in plenty of time for the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year. Now, DGS says it won’t be ready for another six or so weeks.
The “CD” building (“A” is the original building, “B” a recent addition) will house Hearst’s first gym and cafeteria, and new classrooms for art, music and science. DGS is now setting an early October target for completion.
Ward 3 Council member Mary Cheh spends a few days each August touring all the ward’s schools in an effort to spot problems and determine readiness. Her office sent this update.
The Department of General Services (DGS) has recently informed us of some regretful news regarding the Hearst Elementary School modernization project.
Due to construction and permitting delays, DGS will be unable to complete the CD building, containing the gymnasium and cafeteria, in time for the beginning of the school year; they expect the CD building to be ready by early October. Until then, students will continue to use the existing two story trailer for lunch service as they had.
This news is disappointing as we had expected the new facility to be ready by the start of classes and were looking forward to students enjoying their new gymnasium on day one. Although this is an unfortunate situation, we greatly appreciate everyone’s patience as construction remains underway.
Anthony Cassillo
Deputy Director of Constituent Services
Ward 3, Office of Councilmember Mary Cheh
Office: (202) 724-8062
Fax: (202) 724-8118
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