The South Seneca School District is nearing the final stages of a significant capital project that began after voter approval in December 2022. While the project has faced delays, Superintendent Stephen Parker Zielinski expressed gratitude to the school community for its patience as construction progresses through the upcoming spring semester.
One major milestone was the completion of a new drainage system in Interlaken last summer, which has already proven effective during heavy rainfalls. This improvement is expected to reduce the risk of flooding in the Elementary Building, ensuring the facility’s longevity. Additionally, the district utilized federal funds in a separate project to enhance air quality and install air conditioning throughout the building’s second floor.
Security upgrades have also been a key focus. After prolonged delays, newly constructed secure entryways at both the Interlaken and Ovid campuses are now operational. With school security a growing national concern, these enhancements are aimed at making the district’s facilities safer for students and staff.
The district has also made various internal improvements across both campuses. Interlaken now features new drinking fountains, while both main offices and the Ovid lower cafeteria have undergone reconfigurations. Several classrooms and storage areas have been updated, and a new storage and dressing area has been added for music and drama students at the Middle-High School. Additionally, both campuses now feature modern electronic signage at their entrances.
In Ovid, final work is underway on a new receiving area, designed to divert delivery vehicles away from the student drop-off and pick-up zone near the main office. Meanwhile, new pillars at the Middle-High School will be painted when weather conditions allow.
The last major phase of the project involves completing the new Transportation Facility, followed by the demolition of the old structure. While the facility itself is nearly ready for use, site work around the building will continue over the next few months. The district plans to communicate any impacts on parking as demolition nears. The current timeline projects completion before the end of the school year, though Zielinski acknowledged that previous delays have shown that schedules can shift.
“Thank you again for all the patience,” Zielinski said, emphasizing that the improvements will elevate the already high quality of the district’s facilities once fully completed.
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