Facilities Update: Jensen Elementary Demolition

Project Status Update: 9.26.24
Asbestos removal in the Jensen Elementary building began at the end of September (2024). A temporary fence around the perimeter will be constructed and demolition equipment will be brought in the week of October 7. Anticipated demolition completion is by the end of November/early December. Post-demolition clean-up will follow.

Overview: The 2018 Bond Referendum provided community support for the construction of two new elementary schools (Olmsted and Valerius) and a fitness center at the high school. In June 2021, we honored the proud history of Jensen Elementary by inviting the community to participate in a drive-thru grab n’ go dinner. Students previously attending Jensen Elementary began attending the new Olmsted Elementary in fall 2021. 

Despite dedicated efforts, the Jensen Elementary building has been in decline for a number of years. Due to the projected cost of renovation and the current interior state of the facility (e.g. active roof leaks, failed mechanical systems, etc.) it is more advantageous and cost-effective to demolish the building and reserve the property for future development. 

We’re currently discussing the long-term usage of several buildings and spaces in our District (including the Jensen Elementary property). We’ll be sharing more information with the community as we progress through this process. In the meantime, we’d like to keep you informed about what to expect during demolition. 

Timeline: Demolition is anticipated to begin at the end of August 2024, with substantial completion by mid-October 2024. Post-demolition clean up will follow. (Note: See above “Project Status Update: 9.26.24” for updated timing.)

Logistics: Contractors are required to abide by all City noise ordinances and will generally be on-site Monday–Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 7 a.m.– 12 p.m. Earth-moving equipment, cranes, and forklifts will be utilized during demolition. No street closures are anticipated; at select times there may be limited traffic flow. 

Safety: For safety purposes, a 6-foot security fence will be placed around the perimeter of the Jensen Elementary property. Only authorized personnel will be allowed to enter. If you have children who visit the Jensen playground, please let them know they are not allowed to enter the demolition area. We anticipate the main playground area, located outside of the demolition zone, will remain open.

Bricks: Once the demolition process gets underway, we will know more about our ability to offer bricks from the building to our community. If bricks can be salvaged, we will certainly do so, and we will inform the community about the process to pick up a brick.