BY ALEX CANTATORE
Staff Reporter
A long, contentious process of design, redesign, and yet more revision has finally come to an end, with the Turlock Unified School District unanimously approving the scope of work and proposed budget for the modernization of Julien Elementary School. Just over $4.5 million was approved for the project, which will change the layout, look, and amenities of Julien.
The most controversial part of the modernization project was the planned increase in parking lot size, reduction of play areas, and removal of old trees. However, planners insist that the changes are necessary from a traffic safety standpoint and that the trees set to be removed are dead or dying.
About 50 parents and staff were present at a July 22 meeting to discuss the modernization plan. Those opposed to the plan believe that the existing traffic plan would work, were it enforced, and that the trees are not, in fact, diseased.
The Board found that the traffic safety issues were severe enough to cause a potential disaster if left unchecked, however. Due to the difficulties of navigating Julien’s parking lots, some students have been dropped off across Canal Drive, forced to cross the busy street on their own.
“My jaw almost hit the floor when I heard that was happening,” said Trustee Frank Lima. “I knew it would happen at the high school, but I couldn’t imagine it would happen at Julien, a K-6.”
In the end, despite the opposition, the TUSD decided to move forward with the modernization project.
As a result of the decision, six classrooms will be demolished and rebuilt, new ceilings and carpets will be installed in several buildings, and all classrooms will be remodeled. Additionally, the library will be remodeled, a new restroom will be constructed, and the bells, clocks, and intercom system sill be replaced.
Regardless of the improvements, many in attendance still voiced their opposition to the loss of playground for the addition of parking lots, but TUSD Clerk Tim LaVelle summed up the Board’s perceived need for change.
“Twelve to 13 years ago we had same problems, same concerns, and same issues (regarding traffic safety at Julien.) I think I’ll lose a lot of friends at Julien for this, but I’ll make the motion to move forward.
“We can’t leave things the way they are for another 10 or 20 years,” LaVelle said. “If we don’t do things now, there won’t be another opportunity to make this change for 20 years.”
To contact Alex Cantatore, e-mail acantatore@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2005.
Originally published in the Turlock Journal 8/22/2008.
Retrieved from the Turlock Journal Web site.