Oswego East High School’s Performing Arts Center to Undergo Repairs

The Performing Arts Center at Oswego East High School will be closed for a couple of months to undergo emergency repairs following an investigation that uncovered issues with fireproofing and ceiling integrity. District 308 officials, including Chief Financial Officer Raphael Obafemi, emphasized the necessity of these repairs to ensure the safety of the building and compliance with state fire code requirements.

The school’s auditorium, which serves as a key instructional space and is designated as the main storm shelter for Oswego East High School, requires urgent attention. In a memo addressed to school board members, Obafemi outlined the critical nature of the repairs needed. “The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” he stated.

During the September 11, 2023, meeting of the Oswego School Board, members approved a contract worth $494,621 with Performance Services, the company that submitted the lowest bid for the project. Obafemi expressed hope that the repairs would be completed by the end of November 2023.

The Oswego East Performing Arts Center, which opened in early 2005, features a 963-seat auditorium. Obafemi indicated that the repairs are expected to last between 20 to 30 years, ensuring the facility remains a vital resource for the community.

The scope of the work includes several essential tasks:
– Safe removal of the failing intumescent coating from structural steel.
– Application of a high-performance epoxy primer to encapsulate any remaining intumescent coating.
– Installation of new, code-compliant intumescent fireproofing to all applicable steel.
– Replacement of acoustical ceiling cloud systems.
– Installation of new LED light fixtures.
– Reinstallation of sensors, as well as mechanical and electrical equipment above the ceiling.

These repairs are not just about compliance; they also reflect a commitment to providing a safe and functional environment for students and the community. As the work progresses, updates will be provided to ensure transparency and keep the community informed about the status of the Performing Arts Center.