Spring is finally in the air! Living in Chicago, I wait what seems like nine long months of cold, icy, snowy (did I mention cold?) winter for spring to arrive. There’s nothing better than sun shining through my windows, birds chirping, buds on trees, grass getting green and flowers beginning to push up through the earth. I have been enjoying the longer, warmer days so much that I’ve been taking my dog, Belle, on extra-long walks around my neighborhood and, consequently, can’t help but notice the retrofitting taking place.
Definitely the largest project in my neighborhood is occurring at Theodore Roosevelt High School, a Chicago Public School that serves about 1,400 students in grades 9 through 12. The circa 1927 building is receiving new windows (more than 1,700), a new roof, wireless network enhancements, lighting upgrades, and mechanical repairs and upgrades. The work that is most obvious to me is the roofing and masonry repairs. Belle and I have been walking by almost daily to check out the progress. View some photos I’ve taken in the gallery below.
I’ve always enjoyed walking by this school because it really is a beautiful building. There are many public schools throughout the city that truly are gorgeous examples of architecture but are left out of all the great architectural tours that take place in Chicago. For example, check out Chicago Vocational Career Academy, Lane Tech High School, Nicholas Senn High School and Schurz High School. It’s nice to see Chicago Public Schools maintaining such stunning pieces of architectural history.
The retrofit work happening in my neighborhood has me wondering what sorts of retrofits are taking place in yours? Are schools being updated to meet the needs of the modern student? Are retail facilities receiving makeovers? Are restaurants undergoing facelifts? I’m giving you an excuse today to enjoy the spring sunshine and snap a few photos of retrofit work occurring in your neck of the woods. Share the photos on our Facebook page. I look forward to a pictorial “walk” through your neighborhood!
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