Jasper gym to be demolished | Schools

Jasper will demolish what's left of its old gymnasium and built a new facility.

Greater Jasper Schools Superintendent, Dr. Jerrill Vandeventer says the demolition will begin immediately and will continue throughout the summer.

The gym roof collapsed in early May after heavy rains in the area, causing cancellation of classes. 

At a news conference Wednesday, Vandeventer said the work will include the construction of temporary barriers to keep students and adults alike away from the project once school begins on August 20.

John Gunselman, representative with German American Insurance,says that even though there is no clear indication on the cause of the roof collapse, German American accepts the financial loss as theirs and will pay to have the facility fully replaced minus the $1,000 deductible.

The gym will be rebuilt in the same spot and Vandeventer said that the design process is just beginning.  Input will be solicited from those in the school system that will make use of the facility for the School Corporation. He stated that the needs and wants list includes a facility that meets all updated building and construction codes, adequate storage and better access to concessions.

The cost for the demolition of the gym plus new barriers to be put in place during demoliton and construction will be about $800,000.  It's not known yet how much the construction of the new gym will be.

Athletic Director, Andy Knoblett says planning and scheduling has already begun for the sports activities that would normally be held in the gym but there is no word yet on where Jasper High sports teams such as volleyball and basketball will play home games next school year. 

The new gym will likely take 12-18 months to complete.

-WITZ radio contributed to this report