The Problem
In October 2024, Coal City School District No. 1 identified a critical structural failure at the Intermediate School. Three trusses in the building’s original 100-year-old wood truss system failed, causing damage to exterior masonry along the north, non-bearing wall. Student and staff safety became the District’s immediate concern.
Engineering analysis determined the failure resulted from shear at the bottom chord and bearing ends of the wood trusses. Based on guidance from the Regional Office of Education and professional recommendations from Performance Services’ architects and engineers, the District made the precautionary decision to close the building for the remainder of the school year.
To maintain continuity of instruction, the Intermediate School’s students, faculty, administration, and maintenance staff were temporarily relocated to other schools within the district. While necessary, the closure underscored the need for a permanent, reliable solution that would ensure long-term safety and functionality.
The Solution
Performance Services’ in-house Architects, Engineers, and Operations Team mobilized immediately to provide emergency shoring, structural design, and engineering services. Working under the Illinois State Board of Education Emergency Repair Statute, Performance Services developed a permanent repair solution that received approval from the Board of Education, Regional Office of Education, and ISBE.
The solution replaces the failed wood truss system with a new steel truss system, reconstructs the damaged masonry, and fully modernizes key interior spaces—delivering a safer, more durable structure designed to serve the district for decades.
Project improvements include comprehensive gymnasium upgrades:
- New gymnasium floor
- New basketball standards
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
The existing stage was removed and replaced with a new Band Room, relocated from the second floor. The new space features acoustic ceiling clouds, energy-efficient LED lighting, and updated ductwork. Both the gymnasium and band room will receive new gypsum board wall systems, covering the original clay tile and CMU walls to create bright, like-new environments.
The Outcome
This project transforms a serious structural crisis into an opportunity to improve safety, functionality, and learning environments. The Intermediate School will reopen with a modernized structural system and upgraded spaces that support both academics and student activities.
Substantial completion of the gymnasium and band room is scheduled for July 2026, allowing time for final preparation ahead of student occupancy in Fall 2026. When students return, they will do so in a building that is structurally sound, thoughtfully updated, and ready to support the district’s educational mission well into the future.
