Opening of new elementary school in downtown Jeffersonville delayed by 6 months

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (WDRB) -- There are still signs of what used to be at the old Corden Porter School in downtown Jeffersonville. Halls and classrooms that used to be filled with the sound of students are now filled with those of construction.

And while kids will return there, it just won't be as soon as we originally thought.

When city and school leaders broke ground at the new downtown elementary school and those in favor were celebrating, it was said the school would open to students in January 2020.

"Very exciting, but it's certainly going to take a lot of logistical work," Project Supervisor Chad Shenck said.

Greater Clark County Schools now confirms class won't start at the new school until the 2020-2021 school year. Shenck said the new timetable works better for students and staff.

"To switch over during Christmas break, during a holiday break, that gives us about nine days," he said. "A lot of people take off during that time."

Schenck added it has nothing to do with the work being done at the site, and the extra time won't cost the district any more.

"The contract is the contract," Shenck said. "The contract with Core Construction — that dollar amount will remain the same."

Right now, crews are clearing out the inside of the old school, keeping what they can and getting rid of the rest.

When all is said and done, three buildings, the old Corden Porter School, the Nachand Fieldhouse, and a new building will essentially become one.

"To look at it from Court Avenue or here at Franklin Square, it will look like its a seamless building," Shenck said.

Excavation at the site with heavy duty machinery begins Monday. Officials said the building will now be handed over to the school district on April 7.

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