The construction department has been slowed dramatically during the COVID-19 outbreak, but we have not stopped construction. Jay Earehart and Michael Smith our adaptable site supervisors continue to work on the four homes we have under construction.
Work on Abigail’s home at 322 E 9th St is essentially finished! The energy test was recently completed, it passed with flying colors. The next steps are to complete the shed, install the gutters, sidewalks, final grade the property and seed the lot- which should be completed in the next 10-14 days.
The other three homes are in various stages of construction. Our next priority is Maggie’s new home, a rehab on S Mulberry. The drywall phase will begin the first week of May, completing work on or about May 15th. We will then paint the home and start installing the finishes Jay and Michael are working a lot on the 9th St. home. They have finished the painting and most of the window and door trim. The vinyl flooring has been installed, the kitchen and bath cabinets are next. The exterior is being sided and soon the side deck will be installed. Ember’s home on S Ebright will be getting a lot of contractor work in May. We are planning to have the basement waterproofed, the plumbing roughed in and the drywall installed.
Much like the rest of the world the Construction Department are looking forward to the new normal where we can begin bringing volunteers back to the job sites so we can increase the construction rate. While Jay and Michael have worked hard during our shutdown, they are looking forward to having volunteers return. The staff is working on new procedures to keep the job sites safe during the upcoming work in the era of COVID-19. We expect to limit volunteers on a site as well as practicing social distancing and increased sanitation methods employed. More to come on these changes soon.
The Construction Department wants to extend thanks and appreciation for our volunteers and donors. These people make it possible for us to rehab and construct homes for our partner families.
Bob Mathley
Construction Director
