by Sam Geelen, PAW Writer
Fall sports are over, and looking westward, the progress on the Athletic Complex has been sidelined. Due to a wet spring, long delays, and hectic schedules, the previous contractors were benched. The Providence Academy Administration has decided to make an audible, to complete the project in spring 2015 because of early snowfall. Providence has re-signed with long time construction partner, Stahl, a local construction company. Stahl has been associated with Providence for many years. Recently the firm built a classroom addition in 2003, and did an “outstanding job building our high school in 2006,” according to administrators. They also noted that all projects were completed on time.
Mother Nature is not the only opponent the school is facing in the sports complex construction game. There are many other construction projects happening across the Twin Cities. So how does this affect Providence Academy? Think back to the summer driving delays heading up north to the lake cabin. The state had many summer road projects, as well as construction projects at the Capital and the Vikings billion dollar stadium. These mega projects are competing factors that are all going on at the same time as the sports complex. It’s more difficult to get trucks and workers to finish a much smaller project versus a larger project.
PA’s administration team and board of directors are cautiously optimistic that the Athletic Complex will be ready for use, weather permitting, in spring 2015. The goal is to have an opportunity for a lacrosse game next spring. Students, faculty, and parents will all be ready for the home football games, with great expectations for a homecoming celebration in our new stadium. Providence Academy sports have truly advanced both in participation and achievement, thus the completion of the complex is crucial to stay competitive. Most students are anxiously waiting to step on the new turf. However, patience is a virtue.