A $2. 7 million construction project is underway at Trion City Schools to improve safety and weather protection at elementary, middle, and high schools.

WZQZ News reported previously that the improvements were slated after the COVID-19 pandemic but faced challenges due to many small construction businesses closing down. As a result, the school system had to change the project to attract larger contractors. The expanded projects include adding new heating and air conditioning at the elementary school and a safety awning at the front entrance. J & R Construction Co. from Bremen won the contract after a re-bid, with the work at Trion High School planned to take 120 days.

According to Trion School Supt. Dr. Phil Williams, the construction is being done in phases to avoid debt. The first phase will focus on the front entrance, and future plans may include extending the awning to the new gym for better student access. Funding will come from Educational Special Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST) revenue and the school system’s capital account. The $2. 7 million covers HVAC upgrades and awnings at the schools.

Dr. Williams noted that the primary focus of this project is to protect students from bad weather while also enhancing the schools’ appearance.