By Eileen Persike
Editor

Looks like construction on the dome portion of the Hodag sports complex near the Rhinelander High School will begin the week of April 13.

“The dome construction timeline hasn’t changed,” said School District of Rhinelander (SDR) Superintendent Kelli Jacobi. “Construction work for school districts is part of the essential businesses.”

A project manager’s trailer is parked near Webster Stadium. Rettler Corporation of Stevens Point was hired by the school board to oversee construction of the $8 million project.

Last week contracts were finalized and a virtual organizational meeting was held Tuesday. Jacobi said that “most of the contractors indicated they were ready go.” Project completion is expected in September.

In March the school board approved contracts for general site construction and building construction, as well as alternate bids for softball field upgrades, reconstruction of a baseball field and pedestrian lighting. The total cost currently stands at $8.34 million for the complex. The project began with a $500,000 donation in 2019 from Rhinelander resident Dr. Lee Swank. The Hodag Schools Foundation has since solicited community donations of nearly $2 million to go toward the project.

Other school news

Jacobi said the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Education is planned for April 20 in the tiered classroom at the high school, with board members sitting spaced out in the audience section. Media and guests will also be spaced out. The meeting is expected to be brief, to take care of business, with no presentations.

As far as spring school events, Jacobi said Prom has been postponed. No other decisions or recommendations have been made for late May and June activities, including graduation and summer school.