Structural engineer warns WCPSS repair work is 'tight' timeline
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Wake County school officials say crews are working under a tight deadline to complete millions of dollars in structural repairs at three elementary schools after an investigation uncovered significant construction deficiencies dating back decades.
Workers were on site Wednesday at Durant Road Elementary School in north Raleigh, Creech Road Elementary in Garner and Davis Drive Elementary in Cary, where emergency repairs are underway. The district is spending $5.6 million from an existing improvement fund to fix the facilities.
A structural investigation found missing rebar and grout, compromised beam connection elements and roof support structures. Structural engineer Cody Johnston said those issues pose serious risks.
"When I hear you say connections, especially at the roof elevation, there is concern that there is a spontaneous collapse where we have no warning. And that's the type of failure mode that engineers do not want," Johnston said.
During a Wake County School Board meeting Tuesday night, Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor said the building was not constructed according to the architect's drawings when it was built 35 years ago.
"Not knowing who these general contractors or subcontractors were 35 years ago, we certainly want to hold any person accountable for public tax dollars," Taylor said.
All repairs are expected to be finished by Aug. 21. Johnston said engineers may uncover additional problems as they complete a forensic report that's underway.
"We got to get to the root cause; otherwise, you can fix something, and it just be a Band-Aid," Johnston said.
The district said the total cost of repairs remains $5.6 million, funded through money already available.
