Merced city schools warehouse deemed safe after replacement of cracked beams

MERCED -- The Merced City School District's warehouse complex on West 15th Street, between O and R streets, has new roof support beams and now is considered a safe work environment.

The district's Board of Education on Tuesday night awarded a certificate of completion to Carter Construction, the Merced firm that undertook the $74,723 upgrading project over the summer, completing the work Aug. 22.

Greg Spicer, associate superintendent for administrative services, said a dozen district employees work in the print shop, adjoining instructional supplies warehouse and food services department.

When cracks were found in the center beams of the warehouse, concern arose over employee safety and the building's stability.

"It's in good shape," Spicer said of the structure now that the work is done.

"It's an important piece for us, a hub that connects all supplies with the schools. It's been here for decades."

Work began at the end of July to perform an earthquake retrofit and strength the building's roof supports.

Taylor Teeter Architects in Fresno was paid $14,547 to design the warehouse improvements, Spicer said.

Reporter Doane Yawger can be reached at (209) 385-2407 or dyawger@mercedsunstar.com.