Help shape the future of the Ben Reifel gymnasium facilities. The Sisseton School District is considering improvements and wants to hear what matters most to students, families, staff, and the broader community.
Structural assessments have identified concerning foundation movement and structural wall deficiencies in the existing Ben Reifel gymnasium, emphasizing the urgent need to address these issues to ensure the facility's long-term safety and functionality. Additionally, the relocation of grades 5–8 to the SHS main campus in 2007 has increased the demand on the existing athletic facility. Given these structural concerns and increased facility needs, the district must determine a path forward that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term needs. Delaying action may result in further structural deterioration, increased costs, and additional challenges in maintaining a safe and functional facility for our students.
Possible options include:
- Repairing and renovating the existing gymnasium
- Combining renovations of Ben Reifel gymnasium with new construction
- Replacing the existing gymnasium with new facilities
All architects and construction managers interviewed by the district recommended replacing the existing Ben Reifel Gymnasium as the best long-term investment and the lowest-risk approach. Renovation remains an option under consideration. However, renovating the existing gymnasium without first constructing additional space would significantly disrupt school operations. Alternative space is limited and does not provide suitable facilities for the current number of PE courses offered, varsity athletic competitions, and other gymnasium-related activities.
The School Board will determine the direction of the project. No final decisions have been made regarding the project's scope, design, or budget.
The School Board will determine the direction of the project. No final decisions have been made regarding the project's scope, design, or budget.
The October 7 community presentation (https://aptg.co/p85lvY) identified several considerations:
- Ben Reifel Structural Concerns: Assessments identified significant issues with the existing Ben Reifel Gymnasium:
- Foundation and Settlement: The floor has a 5-7 inch slope from east to west. The floor slab and supporting pedestal system are compromised and would require helical piers and a new concrete slab.
- Structural Wall Failure: The north-south shear wall system has failed, placing unintended stress on steel columns. Exterior walls are bowing, brickwork is cracking, and conditions worsened between 2021 and 2024.
- Estimated Repair Costs: Both structural issues must be addressed together before any additional renovations or facility improvements could begin.
- Preliminary Project Budget: An overall budget target of approximately $25 million was presented for an approach that would maintain adequate instructional space during construction while providing additional space for student instruction, athletics, and activities over the long term.
- Final Project Decisions: The project scope, design, and budget remain subject to School Board review and approval.
- Project Funding: The district has existing financial resources available for the project, primarily through Impact Aid and Capital Outlay reserve funds. The planned construction project would not require a bond issue or special, additional tax assessment.