VIDEO: Utica High Undergoes Massive Renovations

Walking through the renovation project at in late July reaffirms my faith in modern technology and the power of the construction worker.

In less than six weeks, phase one of three will be completed, just days before students return to school for the 2011-12 school year.

The multi-year construction project will result in some of the most ambitious facility improvements in the school's history.

When the projects are completed in August 2013, the school will have a new media center, science classrooms, a new administration office, easier access to the auxiliary gym, improved mechanical systems, upgrades to its hallways and a more secure building entry.

Before school begins this year, work to relocate the school's wrestling, fitness and weight rooms to the former pool area will be complete. In fact, I stood on top of where the pool used to be to take a picture.

The fitness and wrestling areas will be renovated into classroom space and corridors to improve the overall building flow will be finished.

However, construction will continue throughout the school year after instruction hours and on weekends to finish the new main office on the west side of the school and a new entrance.

Once completed, work will begin on a new media center in the area of the building facing Shelby Road. The area that currently houses the media center will be converted into three science classrooms.

"We are excited about the impact our building improvements will have on the programs offered to Utica High School students," said Principal Janet Jones. "The projects ensure that our students continue to learn in facilities that are safe, well-maintained and can support important changes in the way we deliver instruction."

The projects are made possible by a 2009 $112.5 million voter-approved bond issue and through a federal grant secured by Utica Community Schools officials.

Under state law, bond-issue funding can only be used for capital improvements such as renovations and not to offset operating expenses.