- By Mike Kelly (Durham Construction News Editor)

The adult education centre, and former elementary school, E.A. Lovell is producing some interesting developments inside and outside its facilities.

After the region saw a need for an adult education center, the province returned the former elementary school, E.A. Lovell on Centre Street in Oshawa, to the district school board for that purpose. But to completely get full use of the facilities, it was quickly decided that renovations were needed to meet the students' scholastic and physical needs.

"Initially we had them (adult education courses) in a number of facilities. We decided a central location would serve the region properly," says Jack Massie, superintendent of Facility Services for the Durham District School Board.

Inside the building, the work included renovations to existing classrooms, the installation of ramps and other accessories to make the building handicapped and wheelchair accessible, and new wiring and circuits for the use of a modern computer system.

"We have equipped the school for modern technology," says Massie.

The purpose of the adult education center is for mature students wishing to return to school to complete certain high school courses and receive their secondary diploma or move on to post secondary education. By renovating the building and offering new and modern equipment and facilities, it insures that the students are given the most opportunities to succeed by the school board and themselves.

At the present time, outside the building is the construction of an elevator shaft. The elevator is another way that the school board is providing for the students, by allowing those confined to a wheelchair or with other physical disabilities that will not allow them to climb steps to reach classes on the schools' second and third floors.

Renovations inside the building and work on the elevator shaft are being completed under Steel Case Construction.

At the east end of the building, another important need for the students' at the adult education center is being met. The former playground is being converted into a parking lot to provide free and close parking for the students.

"We had to put in a parking lot because it is a fact that a large number of the students do drive, and with the open field behind the school we had an opportunity for enlarged parking," says Massie.

The excavation for the parking lot, as well the installation of a new environmentally friendly storm sewer is being completed by Hard Co. Excavating Ltd., from Whitby.

The paving and the curbs for the parking lot is expected to be completed towards the end of November, estimates Bob Hoy, site supervisor for Hard Co. As well, even with the increasing cold weather, the project remains on schedule.

"We are expecting the project to be completed towards Christmas," says Massie.

As well, Massie estimates the renovation to the school will cost in the area of $600,000. The Durham District School Board is picking up the tab for the project.