GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $205,990 TO EXPAND THE CAFETERIA AT PEARL RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

For Immediate Release:  May 3, 2005

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $205,990 for design and consulting services to expand the cafeteria at Pearl Ridge Elementary School.

Currently, the school's enrollment of over 600 students exceeds the capacity of the cafeteria, which is about 4,433 square feet (sf) with a dining area of 2,306 sf.  School lunches are prepared at Aiea Intermediate School and then transported to Pearl Ridge Elementary School.  The school then serves lunch from the serving kitchen in two seatings.

The Department of Education supports expansion of the dining area by as much as 1,330 sf to accommodate the entire student body in one lunch seating or at school assemblies. 

“As the community in Pearl Ridge expands, I am focused on ensuring that Pearl Ridge Elementary School is able to comfortably accommodate the growing student body,” said Governor Lingle.  “Expanding the cafeteria will provide the school with a gathering place, where children and faculty can all come together to enjoy their lunch break and attend school assemblies.”

This project includes the demolition of exterior walls and possibly interior walls and structure, demolition or relocation of exterior structures (walkways, planters, etc.) adjacent to the cafeteria, modifications to the existing cafeteria to meet code requirements, reconnection to existing walkways for accessibility, and dust mitigation measures.

The total project will cost $950,000 and is expected to be completed by December 2007.

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For more information, contact:
Russ Saito  
State Comptroller – DAGS   
Phone: 586-0400

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone:  586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043