From the Scene: December 17, 2007

Since the last photo visit on December first, several interesting developments have taken place.

Most obvious to the eye is the erection of the steel framework for the new education center. The massive girders topped with the new sub-roof are impressive in both scale and obvious engineering. Bolted to footings pre-cast into the concrete foundation, this structure is the beginning of the only footprint expansion of the remodeled building. Adjacent to the education center is the geo-thermal well site. Here, boring has just been completed for 12 400-foot deep wells that will aid in both heating and cooling of the building.

As the drillers struck water in every well, perhaps one of them should be reserved for a private water supply…just kidding…drought joke. Using a huge drilling rig, all 12 wells were drilled to depth in a single week. The manifold for the geo-thermal system has not been installed, but its location is easily marked.

On the second story, half- inch steel rods are being welded to the roof supports for re-enforcement in those areas where the solar panels will be located. These rods are continuous and are welded to the existing structure every 12 inches.

The new elevator shaft (located very close to the old one and the back stairwell…both of which are gone) is nearly complete. It appears as though a half dozen courses are all that remain to be laid.

Plumbing and electrical continue working in the two foot space between the floors. The drainage system is nearly complete, but there are miles of electrical cables, copper pipe and communications lines to be run. Tight work.

In the old front of the building, the excavation for the retention pond is completed, making the first step out the old front door a bit of a hazard. Perhaps 20 feet deep at its nadir, this vast trench makes a significant alteration to the landscape.

While the lack of rain has become a grave concern for Atlanta and North Georgia, it has been a boon to this project. Casual conversations with the construction supervisor reveal good, scheduled progress to date. Once the emphasis shifts to the interior of the building…let it pour!