Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Time: 9:00 am
1 | P a g e Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Time: 9:00 am Location: E. Lawaetz Legislative Chamber, STX Testifier: Craig F. Benjamin, Executive Director Agency: Bureau of School Construction & Maintenance Requestor: Honorable Senator Kurt Vialet, Chairman Committee on Education and Workforce Development 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands TESTIMONY OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CRAIG F. BENJAMIN THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 36TH LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS Good day, Honorable Kurt Vialet, Chairman of the Committee on Education and Workforce Development; Honorable Avery Lewis, Vice Chairman; and distinguished committee members Senators Dwayne Degraff, Kenneth L. Gittens, Marise James, Franklin D. Johnson, and Carla Joseph. I also extend my greetings to esteemed Senators of the 36th Legislature, fellow testifiers, and the listening and viewing audience. I am Craig F. Benjamin, Executive Director of the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance. …
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1 | P a g e Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Time: 9:00 am Location: E. Lawaetz Legislative Chamber, STX Testifier: Craig F. Benjamin, Executive Director Agency: Bureau of School Construction & Maintenance Requestor: Honorable Senator Kurt Vialet, Chairman Committee on Education and Workforce Development 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands TESTIMONY OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CRAIG F. BENJAMIN THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 36TH LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS Good day, Honorable Kurt Vialet, Chairman of the Committee on Education and Workforce Development; Honorable Avery Lewis, Vice Chairman; and distinguished committee members Senators Dwayne Degraff, Kenneth L. Gittens, Marise James, Franklin D. Johnson, and Carla Joseph. I also extend my greetings to esteemed Senators of the 36th Legislature, fellow testifiers, and the listening and viewing audience. I am Craig F. Benjamin, Executive Director of the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance. It is an honor to be here today, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to present testimony regarding several key initiatives that the chair has requested in the agenda to include updates on the New Arthur Richards School Project, the Claude O. Markoe Gymnasium, the installation of kitchen equipment in the St. Croix District, electrical upgrades across territorial schools, the status of air conditioning unit installations in schools impacted by extreme heat, the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance Summer Maintenance Plans for territorial schools, and our Current Work Order Request System. 2 | P a g e Joining me today to present our objectives and plans for the continued development of territorial schools, as well as to provide updates, are: • Chaneel Callwood, New Schools Architect, Virgin Islands Department of Education • Alan Fleming, BSCM Chief Operations Officer • Dr. Charmaine Mayers, BSCM, CFO- • Gene Weeks, BSCM Maintenance Director STT/STJ District • Yauncey Milligan, BSCM Maintenance Director, STX District • Additional support staff present in the chambers We appreciate your attention as we present these important updates, initiatives, and the transition and implementation of the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance. These initiatives reflect our commitment to creating a more efficient, transparent, and effective school maintenance system. TRANSITION FROM VIDE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BSCM The Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance (BSCM) is currently navigating through implementation and transition processes. We have established several standard operating procedures to ensure the Bureau’s operations are effective and efficient. Our team is working on strengthening our administrative functions, which includes holding weekly meetings with other government agencies to ensure a smooth transition. Specifically, we meet with the Department of Education every Tuesday to facilitate the transfer of maintenance services, ongoing projects, and procurement activities. We also meet with the Superintendents on a biweekly basis to address any issues or concerns that may arise at the various schools. In partnership with the Division of Personnel (DOP), we have been working to prepare the Notices of Personnel Action (NOPA) for employees being transferred from the Department of Education, as per Act 8717. Since the Department of Education manages its own hiring processes, DOP has been validating the positions held by these employees. This review has led to the identification of positions that require revisions to align with DOP’s standards. Additionally, we have been working closely with the Bureau of Information Technology (BIT) to establish the necessary technological infrastructure for the Bureau. Our email system is now operational, and staff can be reached at john.doe@bscm.vi.gov. Development of our website is underway and expected to be fully operational by the first week of February. The site will include a section for students, faculty, and staff to report concerns, challenges, and progress. BIT is also overseeing the setup of our telephone and internet services. Furthermore, we are collaborating with the Department of Finance to integrate the Bureau into the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This integration enables us to process requisitions, payments, personnel actions, and other financial transactions effectively. 3 | P a g e We are also streamlining our payment process to ensure timely vendor payments. This includes working with vendors to ensure invoices, periodical estimates, and other documents are submitted promptly, inputting payments efficiently, and maintaining clear communication with the Department of Finance to track payment status. Timely payments are critical, as delays have a trickle-down effect, discouraging vendors from working with the Government of the Virgin Islands. We are also coordinating with the Department of Property and Procurement to ensure that the BSCM team with procurement responsibilities has access to policies and receives the necessary training to ensure proper procurement of goods and services. Currently, the Bureau employs 65 staff members—32 on St. Croix and 33 in the St. Thomas/St. John District. This transition is ongoing, and we remain committed to ensuring its successful completion. We will continue to work diligently and provide updates as we move forward. ONGOING MAINTENANCE Maintenance at our schools is an ongoing priority for the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance. We understand the importance of ensuring that learning environments are safe, functional, and conducive to student success. As such, we are highly responsive to maintenance issues that directly impact the day-to-day operations of the schools. Whenever urgent concerns arise—whether related to plumbing, electrical, AC, or other critical systems—the Bureau takes swift action to address them. Our team is committed to minimizing disruptions to the learning process and resolving issues as quickly as possible to maintain a conducive environment for both students and staff. Since my appointment as Executive Director, several key school ongoing maintenance projects have been successfully completed. We have installed LED lighting throughout the exterior of both Bertha C. Boschulte Jr. High and Lockhart Elementary School campuses. This marks the first time since Hurricane Irma and Maria that these campuses are fully lit. We are now in the process of implementing the same improvements at the St. Croix Educational Complex and Central High School. Additionally, the air conditioning system at the Bertha C. Boschulte Gymnasium has been repaired, and at Lockhart Elementary, the A/C units in the cafeteria and administration building have been replaced. At the St. Croix Educational Complex, following the unfortunate incident, the ceiling fans were removed from each classroom and discarded. We are currently conducting electrical upgrades, and portable A/C units have been procured and are now on island. These units are in the process of being tagged by Property and Procurement. Once the electrical upgrades are complete, the A/C units will be installed. The A/C system in the complex’s auditorium has also been repaired, and this work has been completed. Repairs to the A/C units in the cafeteria and gymnasium are ongoing. Assessments have been completed, and the next step is the contract procurement process. The anticipated completion date is the end of February 2025. 4 | P a g e In addition, bids are being solicited for the baseball field and basketball court projects. The contractor is currently resurfacing the tennis court, and it is expected to be completed by February 15th. At John Woodson, mold testing in classrooms is scheduled for the weekend of February 14th through 16th. We have taken immediate action in response to recent concerns about a moldy smell in the classrooms. Our mold remediation/deep cleaning contractor was immediately activated on January 30th to conduct a thorough cleaning of the affected classrooms. Additionally, the Bureau is working in collaboration with the Property and Procurement departments to establish an A/C service contract for all public schools across both districts. Due to the aging infrastructure of our schools and the environmental conditions in the region, we anticipate ongoing electrical, structural, and mechanical issues, such as water leaks and fluctuations in humidity. These factors can sometimes contribute to a mildew smell returning even after remediation. To address this, we will implement quarterly deep cleanings in all schools across the territory. Mold testing will be conducted every six months, and if mold is detected, remediation will occur. For preventative measures, the Bureau will conduct annual inspections and maintain proper ventilation and moisture control using air cleaners. Playground Upgrades – St. Croix District Several schools in the St. Croix district received upgrades, with all work completed except at Pearl B. Larsen due to the need for asphalt removal and replacement with pour-in-place rubber padding. The following schools are complete: · Alfredo Andrews – 100% complete · Eulalie Rivera – 100% complete · Claude Marco – 100% complete · Pearl B. Larsen – 90% complete (asphalt needs to be removed and replaced with pour-in-place rubber padding) NEW ARTHUR RICHARDS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION Project Overview: The New Arthur Richards School Construction project, located on the Island of St. Croix, is progressing smoothly and is more than 30% complete. The main contractor, MCN Build, along with subcontractors Eleven Construction LLC and GEC Construction LLC, have made significant strides in the construction of the new facility. 5 | P a g e The most recent vetted Project schedule has the school completed by July 31, 2026. Schedule has the school to be completed by July 31, 2026. An approved Certificate of Occupancy would be obtained 60 days prior. The furniture will start assembly and installation on June 22nd, and the supplies and content to follow ensure that on July 31, 2026, the School is delivered. Completed Activities: Considerable progress has been made across various areas of the project. Throughout the site all buildings footings and vertical walls are poured with final decisions regarding recolored plasters to be applied. All buildings structural steel roof connectors are in place or in the final stage of insertion with many buildings structural steel trusses already being installed. All buildings’ window and door frame metal supports are on island and installed, window and door frames are also on site with preparations being made for installation of the windows, doors to follow other work is completed. In fact, the maintenance building roof is dried in with the final flashings being installed as we meet here today thus completing the first roof for the overall project. Off-site drainage collections are completed and as recently as Tuesday January 28th, agreements have been made for the final collections of water throughout the whole of the estate to mitigate road damage from not just the Old Rim Factory Road but also Paradise Road. For the sake of time, the list of specific advancements for each building is listed in Appendix A of this testimony. (See Appendix A) Conclusion: The New Arthur Richards School construction project is progressing as planned, with over 30% of the work already completed. Significant milestones have been achieved, including the pouring of all exterior walls and the successful completion of various structural and MEP rough-ins. The project team is on track to meet its scheduled goals, and efforts to maintain this momentum will continue as the construction advances toward its next phases. Claude O. Markoe Gymnasium Renovation Project Overview: The renovation of Claude O. Markoe Gymnasium is currently in the demolition phase, with significant progress being made on initial site preparations and infrastructure updates. The scope of work includes the demolition of old bleachers, the removal of outdated electrical components, and the installation of new systems to support enhanced lighting and air conditioning. Progress Update: 1. Demolition Activities: ➢ The demolition of old bleachers has been completed. 6 | P a g e ➢ Removal of old electrical components is currently underway, which is necessary to accommodate the installation of modern electrical systems that will support the gymnasium’s new lighting and air conditioning infrastructure. 2. Electrical System Upgrade: ➢ The removal of obsolete electrical components is progressing as planned. ➢ New electrical systems will be installed to meet the needs of upgraded lighting and air conditioning. Project Timeline: ➢ Initial Delay: The project experienced a delay due to the absence of a purchase order at the time of contract execution, which coincided with the closing of the government’s fiscal system during the final months of 2024. This led to a temporary halt in the procurement process and subsequent work delays. ➢ Change Order for Time Extension: A change order requesting an additional 120 days (about 4 months) has been submitted for approval to account for the delay caused by the fiscal system closure and to ensure that the project timeline remains achievable. ➢ Revised Completion Date: Despite the delays, the project is now expected to be completed by May 2025. Conclusion: While the project has encountered some setbacks due to administrative delays, the team remains committed to completing the renovation of Claude O Markoe Gymnasium by May 2025. Efforts are being made to expedite the remaining work while ensuring quality standards are maintained. There will be ongoing coordination between contractors and vendors to mitigate further delays. The requested change order for additional time will provide the necessary flexibility to accommodate the revised schedule. Project Status Report: STX Kitchen Renovations Project Overview: The Claude O. Markoe Kitchen Renovation project, executed under both the Original and Supplemental Contracts, is underway. All necessary contracts have been secured, and work is progressing with the contractor focused on completing the line items specified in the Supplemental Contract. The contractor is approximately 40% complete with the scope outlined in the Supplemental Contract. The full renovation, including the installation of a new walk-in fridge and freezer, is expected to be completed by early March 2025. Additionally, five other kitchen renovation projects—including walk-in fridges and freezers at Central, Woodson, Ricardo Richards, Lew Muckle, and Juanita Guardine schools—have been 7 | P a g e completed. These projects are now in the final stages, awaiting the periodical estimate from the contractor to process the final payment. (See Appendix B for detailed list of kitchen projects) Conclusion: The Claude O. Markoe Kitchen Renovation project is progressing as expected, with 40% of the Supplemental Contract scope completed and the project on track for March 2025 completion. Renovations at five other schools are already completed, and the final payment process is underway. The project team is focused on maintaining momentum to meet all deadlines and ensure successful completion for all kitchens involved. Basketball Court Resurfacing Project: Project Overview: The Basketball Court Resurfacing Project, which includes courts at Pearl B. Larsen, Ricardo Richards, Alfredo Andrews, Eulalie Rivera, and Lew Muckle schools, is currently underway. The project involves resurfacing and restoring the basketball courts to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. Construction is actively progressing, with the project about 25% complete. The anticipated completion date for the full resurfacing of all courts is at the beginning of March 2025. Project Progress: • Current Status: The construction work is in progress, with approximately 25% of the resurfacing work completed across all five schools. Crews are actively engaged in the necessary preparation and resurfacing activities. • Scope of Work: The work includes removing and replacing the old court surfaces, ensuring proper leveling, applying new coatings, and completing any necessary repairs to maintain the safety and integrity of the courts. • Estimated Completion: The project is expected to be completed by the beginning of March 2025, with all basketball courts fully resurfaced and ready for use. Next Steps: • Continue with the resurfacing process across all sites, ensuring that work is carried out according to schedule. • Monitor progress to ensure quality control and that all specifications are met for safety and performance. • Complete any final adjustments and touch-ups needed prior to the estimated completion date in early March 2025. 8 | P a g e Conclusion: The Basketball Court Resurfacing Project is progressing well, with 25% of the work completed. The project remains on schedule to be completed by the beginning of March 2025. The team is committed to delivering high-quality results and ensuring the courts are ready for use at the projected completion date. Electrical Upgrades and Generator Installations by District The electrical upgrades, generator installations, and fencing projects across both districts are progressing, although some have experienced delays due to equipment lead times and the need for time extensions to accommodate school schedules. Several projects are still on track for completion by summer or early 2025, with payments and mobilization currently being processed. Significant progress has been made on infrastructure projects in both the St. Thomas/St. John (STTJ) and St. Croix (STX) districts. In the STTJ district, the EWAA Fencing Repair, contracted to Julio Masonry, has been completed with full payment issued, enhancing security at the site. In the STX district, multiple projects have also made notable strides. At the east end of St. Croix Educational Complex High, building repairs and painting, completed by B20 Maintenance on January 24, 2025, was slightly delayed but finished successfully. The Youth Rehabilitation Center Modular Demolition, completed by JP Construction on December 15, 2024, was executed as planned, preparing the site for future development. Additionally, B20 Maintenance completed HVAC servicing at the Complex High Headquarters on December 9, 2024, ensuring optimal system performance. Lastly, B20 Maintenance also completed the quarterly cleaning of all schools and activity centers by June 20, 2024, with regular cleaning continuing on schedule. Overall, these efforts reflect a strong commitment to maintaining and improving local infrastructure. (See Appendix C for detailed updates on each project) Efforts are underway to address delays and keep projects on schedule, and the team is actively coordinating with contractors to ensure timely completion of all components. The Bureau acknowledges that these upgrades are essential for improving the learning environment, student safety, and the overall functionality of our school facilities. The Bureau of School Construction continues to make considerable progress in enhancing school infrastructure through effective use of funds. We remain committed to using these funds efficiently and are working closely with the Department of Property and Procurement to ensure all necessary approvals and documentation are in place. 9 | P a g e Completed Key Infrastructure Projects Overview: Several key infrastructure projects have been successfully completed in both the St. Thomas/St. John (STTJ) and St. Croix (STX) districts. The projects include building repairs, demolition, HVAC servicing, and general maintenance activities. The key infrastructure projects completed include EWAA fencing repair, East End of Complex High Maintenance Building Repairs and Painting, Youth Rehabilitation Center Modular Demolition as well as Quarterly Cleaning of All Schools/Activity Center has been contracted. The completion of these key infrastructure projects across the St. Thomas/St. John and St. Croix districts represents significant progress in maintaining and upgrading essential public facilities. Projects such as the maintenance building repairs, HVAC servicing, and modular demolition are critical to the ongoing functionality and safety of school and community infrastructure. All projects have been completed with no major issues, and full payments have been issued where applicable. A comprehensive listing is provided in Appendix D. (See Appendix D) Summer 2025 Maintenance and In-House Projects Progress continues across multiple ARPA-funded and supplemental projects, with various contractors requesting extensions due to supply chain delays and scheduling conflicts with school operations. Several projects are in the solicitation phase, while others are moving forward with procurement and execution. Efforts will continue to monitor these projects closely and ensure timely completion, particularly for the summer 2025 maintenance initiatives and planned upgrades to improve facilities across the district. Several in-house maintenance projects are underway or scheduled for summer 2025. RFPs are currently in process. These proposed projects include work on air conditioning systems, electrical outlets, ceiling light replacements, roof repairs, and restroom upgrades at various schools including: ➢ Kean High School Restrooms upgrades. *Deck Painting completed. Plumbing upgrades ➢ Jane E. Tuitt Elementary School Restrooms Upgrades (4) Classroom Upgrades (Ceiling Tiles, Painting and Floor Tiles) Plumbing upgrades 10 | P a g e ➢ Julius C. Sprauve Elementary School Cafeteria Repair Deck Painting ➢ Bowsky Middle School Treatment Plant Repairs Deck Painting ➢ Lockhart K-8 School Deck Painting Restrooms Upgrades ➢ CAHS (Charlotte Amalie High School) Resealing Roof w/topcoat Deck Panting Interior Modular Repairs ➢ Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School Restrooms Upgrades WORK ORDER REQUEST SYSTEM (TEMPORARY) In December 2024, the Bureau implemented a temporary work order request system to streamline the process for maintenance repairs. Principals were informed that all work order requests should be submitted through VIDE's Helpdesk at https://helpdesk.vide.vi/. This system was designed to enhance operational efficiency and improve communication regarding maintenance needs. The Maintenance Directors review the work orders daily and assign them to the appropriate coordinators for resolution. To ensure that the maintenance issues are resolved in a timely manner, Principals must submit the request through the work order system. The BSCM is currently working with BIT to procure a permanent work order system that is incorporated within GVI Service Now. CLOSING STATEMENT I want to emphasize that the work we are undertaking is far from a solo effort. We are building strong, strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including the Department of Education and the Office of Disaster Recovery, to ensure that our initiatives are fully integrated with broader educational and recovery goals. This united approach enables us to drive meaningful changes and deliver tangible results that will benefit the entire Virgin Islands community. While the challenges we face are substantial, I am confident that, through our collective efforts, we can transform our school facilities into vibrant spaces that foster learning, innovation, and 11 | P a g e growth. Our children deserve nothing less than our unwavering commitment to excellence, and that is precisely what we are prepared to provide. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my dedicated team at the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance. Their hard work, dedication, and unwavering support have been instrumental in our progress thus far. Thank you for your attention and support. We look forward to keeping you informed throughout this journey and are grateful for your continued partnership as we work together to enhance the educational infrastructure of the U.S. Virgin Islands. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. 12 | P a g e 13 | P a g e APPENDIX 14 | P a g e APPENDIX A ARTHUR RICHARDS LIST OF ADVANCEMENT PER BUILDING • In the K-5A building, rough grading for the slab-on-grade (SOG) has been completed, and under-slab plumbing, electrical, and fire protection rough-ins have been initiated. For the K-5B building, second-floor beam clips and wall angles have been installed, and column erection has begun. In the Commons area, the second-floor opening remediation and under-slab plumbing rough-ins are complete, and excavation for exterior footings is on track. • The Administration building has seen flashing and sealant installation completed, and window frame assembly has started, while wall remediation and top-of-wall surveys are nearing finalization. • Additionally, the utility building’s standing seam roof system and trim have been installed, and all electrical and plumbing rough-ins for walls and ceilings have been completed. • The Gymnasium/Saferoom has seen progress with the erection of trusses and the successful pouring of both the slab-on-grade and slab-on-metal-deck. • Finally, in the Pre-K building, curtain wall frame installation has been completed. These activities demonstrate strong momentum in all areas, keeping the project on track for timely completion. 15 | P a g e APPENDIX B Project Progress: St. Croix Kitchen Renovations 1. Claude O. Markoe Kitchen Renovation: ➢ Supplemental Contract Progress: The contractor is actively working to complete the remaining line items associated with the Supplemental Contract. Approximately 40% of the scope has been completed to date. ➢ Renovation Components: The project includes extensive renovations, such as updates to kitchen infrastructure and the installation of a walk-in fridge and freezer. ➢ Expected Completion: The contractor is on schedule, and all work, including the walk- in fridge and freezer installation, is expected to be completed by early March 2025. 2. Five Additional Kitchen Renovations: ➢ Schools Included: The renovations at St. Croix Central High School, John Woodson, Ricardo Richards, Lew Muckle, and Juanita Gardine schools have been completed. ➢ Status: These projects are awaiting the final periodical estimate from the contractor to process the final payment, signaling that all construction activities have been finished, and the projects are moving into the final financial phase. Next Steps: • Claude O. Markoe Kitchen Renovation: ➢ Continue with the completion of the remaining tasks under the Supplemental Contract. ➢ Ensure that the walk-in fridge and freezer installation is completed on time for the anticipated early March 2025 completion date. ➢ Regularly review progress to ensure that the project remains on schedule and that quality standards are maintained. • Five Kitchen Renovations (Central, Woodson, Ricardo, Lew Muckle, Juanita): ➢ Await the periodical estimate from the contractor to proceed with processing the final payment. ➢ Review completed work and ensured all documentation for final payment is accurate and submitted in a timely manner. 16 | P a g e APPENDIX C Electrical Upgrades and Generator Installations by District Overview: The following list provides a detailed status update on the ongoing electrical upgrades and generator installations funded by ARPA for various schools and facilities across the Virgin Islands, grouped by district. The progress of these projects varies, with several contractors requesting time extensions due to school operational constraints, as well as delays in receiving critical equipment. St. Thomas/St. John (STTJ) 1. BCB Generator Purchase & Delivery (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded ($1,836,000.00): ➢ The generator and transfer switch are expected to arrive in March 2025, with the transfer switch scheduled to arrive in February 2025. Charles Electric will handle the pick-up and delivery to BCB for installation. ➢ Status: On schedule for delivery in March 2025. 2. BCB Generator Installation (Charles Electric) - ARPA Funded ($730,138.50): ➢ Awaiting the arrival of the generator and transfer switch from Haugland VI. Due to lead times, the contractor is requesting a time extension. ➢ Status: Contractor has received PE #1 for mobilization. 3. Curriculum Center Generator Installation (Charles Electric) - ARPA Funded ($180,000.00): ➢ The generator has arrived on the island, and installation is expected to be completed within two days. ➢ Status: Minor delays due to transportation issues, but work is nearing completion. 4. Julius Sprauve Generator Installation (Charles Electric) - ARPA Funded ($739,530.00): ➢ Civil work began during the Christmas shutdown but was halted due to safety concerns and school operations. The contractor has requested a time extension, with plans to complete by the end of summer. ➢ Status: PE #1 for mobilization submitted. 5. Guy Benjamin Generator Installation (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded ($465,050.00): 17 | P a g e ➢ The generator is on the island, and installation has begun. Civil work is 50% complete. The transfer switch is expected to arrive in February 2025. ➢ Status: PE #1 submitted and processing. 6. Joseph Gomez Electrical Upgrade (Charles Electric) - ARPA Funded ($899,275.00): ➢ Civil work began during the Christmas break but was delayed due to school operations. The contractor will complete the work during the summer. The electrical panels for the project are awaited. ➢ Status: PE #1 for mobilization submitted. Request for a time extension due to scope. 7. Ivanna Eudora Kean Electrical Upgrade (Leslie Electric) - ARPA Funded ($482,350.00): ➢ The contractor is 30% complete with the job but is awaiting PE #1 payment for mobilization and special panels and breakers. ➢ Status: Time extension requested to complete civil work in the summer. 8. Jane E Tuitt Electrical Upgrade (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded ($190,000.00): ➢ PO received on December 12, 2024. The contractor requested a time extension for completion by March 2025. ➢ Status: Time extension requested; no PE submitted yet. St. Croix (STX) 9. Eulalie Rivera K-8 Electrical Upgrade (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded ($727,000.00): ➢ The contractor has installed main distribution boards (DBP), subpanels, and cableways for air conditioning units. Cable pulling began last weekend. ➢ Status: PE #1 submitted and processing; work is on schedule. 10. Juanita Gardine K-8 Electrical Upgrade (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded ($597,000.00): ➢ The contractor requested a time extension due to the installation of an entirely new switchboard. Work is planned for completion during the summer. ➢ Status: Awaiting change order for time extension; no PE submitted. 11. Lew Muckle Electrical Upgrade (CCE) - ARPA Funded ($483,776.94): ➢ The contractor had delays in obtaining permits, but this has been resolved. They have received payment for mobilization and are awaiting electrical panels and other parts. ➢ Status: On schedule for completion within the designated time frame. 18 | P a g e 12. Eulalie Rivera & Pearl B Larson Generator Installation (Haugland VI) - ARPA Funded: ➢ Haugland VI has been instructed to order generators for both projects as they have the contract and purchase orders. They are awaiting the Notice to Proceed (NTP). ➢ Status: Pending NTP to proceed with the purchase. Additional Ongoing STX Projects Overview: STX Educational Complex – Kitchen Air Conditioning Repair (Contractor: TBA) ➢ Status: Pending ➢ Notes: Two contractors have completed assessments. The second quote was received on January 27, 2025. St. Croix Educational Complex Lighting for Track, Parking Lot, and Courtyard - Bureau Funded: ➢ Scope of work is being prepared for this project. ➢ Status: In preparation phase. Pearl B. Larsen – Temporary Roof Repairs (Contractor: TBA) ➢ Status: Pending ➢ In-house assessment has been completed. The project will be revisited with the contractor. John H. Woodson – Permanent Roof Repair (Contractor: Rooftops) ➢ Status: The contractor assessed the roof on January 30, 2025. We are currently awaiting the Scope of Work (SOW) from the contractor. Once received, we will proceed with the next steps. John H. Woodson – Kitchen Gas Line Repair (Contractor: MCN) ➢ Status: In progress ➢ Delays have occurred due to weather conditions. The contractor has been instructed to continue working on the interior portion of the kitchen until the ground dries. Once the ground is dry, repairs to the gas line will proceed. Pearl B Larsen Fencing Project (J&P Construction) ➢ Status: Expected completion by February 15, 2025. 19 | P a g e Lew Muckle – Restroom Repair (Contractor: TBA) ➢ Status: Pending ➢ In-house assessment has been completed. The project will be put out for bid next week. All Schools – Replace Flush meters and Faucets (Contractor: In-house) ➢ Status: Preparing requisition ➢ The project is currently in the requisition preparation stage. Central High – Window A/C Unit Replacement (Contractor: In-house) ➢ Status: Need to purchase 3 window units ➢ In-house work is underway. The purchase of 3 additional window units is necessary to complete the project. SPED Roof Repair (Dionisio Enterprises) ➢ Status: Expected completion by March 15, 2025. Additional Ongoing STT/STJ Projects Overview: EWAA Fencing Repair (Julio Masonry) - ARPA Funded ($48,738.75): ➢ Work has been completed, and the contractor has been paid in full. ➢ Status: Substantial completion. EWAA Roof Repair (Contractor: TBA) ➢ Status: Solicitation under review with work scheduled to begin soon. Joseph Gomez ADA Classroom Renovation (Custom Builders) - ARPA Funded ($215,647.00): ➢ The project is 95% complete, with the final door on the island. It will be completed and closed out by February 8, 2025. ➢ Status: PE #1 and PE #2 submitted and processing. Lockhart K-8 and BCB Middle School Parking Lot Lighting - PFA Funded: ➢ Both projects have been completed. ➢ Status: Completed. 20 | P a g e Skills Center Ethernet and Power Drops - Bureau Funded: ➢ Work has been completed, and the contractor is awaiting payment. ➢ Status: Awaiting payment. VIDE Modular Air Quality Remediation (STT/STJ and STX) ➢ The VIDE Modular Air Quality Remediation project is focused on improving air quality within modular buildings across both the St. Croix (STX) and St. Thomas/St. John (STT/STJ) districts. The contractor for this project has yet to be determined (TBD). The initiative aims to address and remediate air quality concerns to create a healthier and safer environment for occupants of the affected buildings. The project is in the planning phase, awaiting the selection and finalization of the contractor. 21 | P a g e APPENDIX D Completed Key Infrastructure Projects The completion dates and contractors for each project are provided, demonstrating significant progress in maintaining and enhancing local infrastructure. St. Thomas/St. John (STTJ) District 1. EWAA Fencing Repair ➢ Contractor: Julio Masonry ➢ Completion Date: Completed and full payment issued ➢ Scope: This project involved the repair of fencing at EWAA, improving security and the overall condition of the site. ➢ Status: Completed with full payment issued. St. Croix (STX) District 1. East End of Complex High – Maintenance Building Repairs and Painting ➢ Contractor: B20 Maintenance ➢ Completion Date: January 24, 2025 (originally scheduled for December 15, 2024) ➢ Scope: The maintenance building at the East End of Complex High was repaired and repainted as part of regular upkeep efforts to ensure the functionality and aesthetic condition of the building. ➢ Status: Completed on time, though the project was delayed slightly beyond the original completion schedule. 2. JP Construction – Youth Rehabilitation Center Modular Demolition ➢ Contractor: JP Construction ➢ Completion Date: December 15, 2024 ➢ Scope: This project involved the demolition of the modular structures at the Youth Rehabilitation Center, preparing the site for future development. ➢ Status: Completed as scheduled. 3. B20 Maintenance – HQ HVAC Servicing, St. Croix Educational Complex High School ➢ Contractor: B20 Maintenance ➢ Completion Date: December 9, 2024 ➢ Scope: The HVAC system at the Complex High Headquarters was serviced to ensure efficient operation and compliance with necessary standards. ➢ Status: Completed as per the original schedule. 22 | P a g e 4. B20 Maintenance – Quarterly Cleaning, All Schools/Activity Center ➢ Contractor: B20 Maintenance ➢ Completion Date: June 20, 2024 ➢ Scope: Quarterly cleaning of all schools and activity centers was completed, ensuring that facilities were maintained in a clean and safe condition for students, staff, and visitors. ➢ Status: Completed and ongoing on a regular quarterly basis.