The final stage of a $33 million renovation of Haverhill High School calls for more parking, better lighting and improved traffic flow.
The changes involves the areas around the outside the school, including parking lots and routes in and out of the complex.
"The site is being used by contractors and their vehicles and equipment. The sidewalks, parking lots and grass areas are just getting worn down from normal work operations, hence the rationale of scheduling the site renovations now," said Paul Bergman, chairman of the High School Building Committee.
Bergman said this is a common practice everywhere when several renovations are made to a building.
The proposal, called a preliminary site plan, is available for public viewing and comment. It outlines the proposed traffic flow and parking improvements, including bus and car routes, pickup and drop-off sites, pedestrian access and emergency routes.
"There will be hundreds more parking spaces open to students, faculty and visitors. In accordance with state regulations, handicapped spaces will also be provided within close proximity of the building," Bergman said.
An improved layout includes a combination of one- and two-way traffic and separate entrances for cars and school buses. Renovations also include new lighting along the traveled ways and parking areas, Bergman said.
"It is our belief that the site renovations will be immediately apparent to those that enter the high school building property. If you drive in, it will jump out at you," Bergman said. "We have a wonderful committee here and I'm very pleased to be a part of it."
The civil engineer responsible for the site plan is Nitsch Engineering, which is consulting with KBA Architects, who are in charge of the project.
The preliminary site plan and the site plan as it currently is designed are available for viewing at the high school in the main office, auditorium and gymnasium areas, the Haverhill Public Library, and on the Haverhill Public School's home page at www.haverhill-ps.org.
The High School Building Committee hopes to receive a substantial number of comments and recommendations. To make suggestions or comments, e-mail HSrenovations@haverhill-ps.org.
