Bob Etheridge, former US Representative for North Carolina’s second congressional district, paid Ocracoke School a visit Monday, May 23. Etheridge had come to see how the school’s new gym construction was coming along. Why? In 2009, as part of an economic stimulus package in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Congress approved the Qualified School Construction Bonds and Qualified Zone Academy Bond program – specifically used for school construction, renovation, repair and site acquisition. Etheridge was one of the key advocates for the school construction bonds, which are supported by President Obama.
As soon as the program was established, Hyde County was ready and quickly acquired the bonds needed for school projects – like Ocracoke School’s new gym. Etheridge takes great pride in visiting these sites, positive evidence of the program he helped introduce. “This is a win-win for both the school and the community,” Etheridge commented, “as the gym will act as both a school building and a community facility.” He also pointed out not only does Hyde County save money on the construction as building costs are currently down, but this project also provides employment for local contractors who may have been out of work, further assisting the local economy. “This is a great visionary step on part of the County Commissioner and School Superintendent,” stated Etheridge. “This doesn’t happen in many communities.”
Ocracoke School’s new gym is projected for completion in August 2011.
“Until tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow”
The Castle Blogger
Crisi
www.TheCastleBB.com
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