The old Fort Scott High School bleachers were installed over 50 years ago in 1964, and have served the school activities since that time.
Recently USD 234 purchased and installed new ones. The new bleachers are located in the main gymnasium at FSHS.
“They have served their purpose, and in the past several years have needed numerous repairs,” Jeff DeLaTorre, U234 Athletic/Activities Director, said.
They were identified as an area to address for many years by the school leadership.
“The cost and skill to maintain the bleachers to function safely versus replacing them were prohibitive, which is why it was decided to replace them,” Gina Shelton, U234 Business Manager and Board Clerk, said.
“The new bleachers also provide a more modern look to the gym, as well as provide more comfort to our fans and spectators,” DeLaTorre said.
“They were installed over the past two weeks. The backs to the bleachers will be installed later this summer,” he said.
The total cost was $314,020 and was paid out of the school district’s contingency part of the bond funds, according to Shelton.
“We feel the new look in the gym will benefit our students daily, providing a brighter look that will enhance pride in their school,” DeLaTorre said. “They will also benefit our parents, spectators, and fans that attend events in our gym by providing more comfortable seating. The addition of these bleachers is a positive addition to our gym that has been the site of some wonderful memories in the past, and we know will be home to more wonderful moments in the future.”