Fairmount Elem. Set to Break Ground, Not Traditions

Bristol Tennessee officials plan to break ground on the new Fairmount Elementary School building Wednesday at 9a.m. The $13.7 million project will replace the rustic building with a one-story, 75,000 square foot structure. The new building also will have a geo-thermal heating system.

By: | TriCities.com
Published: August 27, 2008

Bristol Tennessee officials plan to break ground on the new Fairmount Elementary School building.

Bur-Wil Construction crews are working to clear the area around Maryland and Virginia Streets since demolition started back in July.

Bristol Tennessee school board, city council members and community leaders are expected to show up around nine o’clock to usher in the next era for the city’s oldest school.

The $13.7 million project will replace the rustic building with a one-story, 75,000 square foot structure. The new building also will have a geo-thermal heating system.

The Fairmount Elementary School building was nearly 90 years old when demolition began back in July. Since then students have attended Central Elementary School.

According to BTCS officials, Central Elementary can hold up to 500 students, although enrollment currently stands at 190 youths.

School organizers say it’s important for the new building to maintain the historic style of the community.

At least one of the tall oak trees on the grounds will be cut into lumber to make commemorative furniture such as trophy cases and benches. Bricks from the old building will be used to construct pillars and parts of the lobby for the new school.

The Central Elementary School PTA is also working to develop a fundraiser using bricks from the historic building.

Six-hundred students are expected to head to class when Fairmount Elementary opens January 2010.