The Marshalltown Community School District has been awarded a $3.4 million grant from the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The grant will be used towards a Marshalltown High School Stadium Complex safe room, a structure designed to withstand high wind speeds and tornadoes. The building will also act as a meeting space, hold team rooms, first aid, training rooms, and concessions when not in use as a storm shelter.
“I’m thrilled that FEMA and Iowa Homeland Security have awarded MCSD with a $3.4 million grant to build a tornado safe team room building at the MHS stadium complex,” said Superintendent Dr. Theron Schutte. “Two years of effort and patience went into planning, designing, and navigating the approval process. Thank you to FEH Lead Architect Kevin Eiperlee and our project managers from Iowa Homeland Security for making this vision a reality.”
The project will have a total cost of just over $3.9 million. MCSD will cover the remaining cost using Statewide School Infrastructure Sales and Service Tax (SAVE) funds, which can be used for construction projects. This funding source cannot be used for salaries or program needs.
MCSD is committed to providing safe and secure facilities for the Bobcat community, a core reason why the district has pursued this grant. The estimated time of completion of the safe room will be in fall of 2024.
“The district recognized the need for an area of safety for student athletes, parents, and spectators at outdoor activities in the event of future serious weather events. This grant will allow us to provide a safe place for them to congregate,” said Schutte.
For more information about the safe room or the grant, please email Schutte at tschutte@marshalltown.k12.ia.us.
