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Demopolis Rotarians got a look at the new multipurpose building at Westside Elementary last Wednesday, February 1. The project began in 2021 and is only waiting on the fire security panel and approval for occupancy.

Superintendent Tony Willis had nothing but good things to say about the new building, and was “very pleased” with how it has turned out. The new building has basketball goals, a stage for Kindergarten programs and other school performances, an audio room, bleachers, and a pleasing blue and white color scheme. Willis also said the flooring is a rubberized floor that is better for elementary school students because the surface is softer, and does not need to be refinished every two years.

“There are a lot of benefits. It could be a competition gym, but that’s not what this was built for. We went for the rubberized floor because it is a P.E. gym,” said Willis. “But if we needed to have a practice or wanted to have a game or tournament in here, we can. We have that capability.”

Parking and drop-off have been a topic of discussion as the project neared completion. Willis said that the original plans had parking running from the gym to the school building. However, WES principal Tisha Lewis wanted the area to be used for drop off and changed the route through the parking lot. WES administration has been holding trial runs through the parking lot before officially opening it to morning and evening traffic.

Once the building gets its final approval, students will be allowed into the building for P.E. classes. P.E. equipment will be moved into the building around spring break.