Local Grants Enable ADA Remodeling at The Berea Schoolhouse

 Through generous local grants from the City of Berea and The Berea City Club the Berea Schoolhouse building has received ADA compliance verification after remodeling both of its restrooms and utility room and installing a wheelchair ramp from the parking lot to the entrance.

In 2006 The Berea Little Red School House Foundation began an earnest effect to restore the historic structure. We knew then, that a key element in the success of the project and full utilization of the building would depend on accessibility to all. No little feat for this aged structure with a high elevation. The restrooms were reminiscent of a mid-century roadside Gas Service Station, an embarressment and impediment for a functional community building. All grants and donations received in prior years had addressed countless crisis To-Do’s and necessary occupancy up-grades, overshadowing the ADA priority for way too long. When we were ready, our community stepped up when asked. In addition to these badly needed upgrades, we were also able to repair the wobbly sandstone stairs at two entrances. The stones were reset with new mortar on top of new footers and supports where needed.

Again, we wish to sincerely thank The City of Berea and the Berea City Club for their generous grants. Without them these improvements would likely still be on our wish list. We also wish to thank our noble volunteers and contractors for their donated time, materials and expertise. ​Thank you all !  And, who will be first to enjoy these new amenities? —the 30 elementary schoolers attending the week-long Annual Summer Art Camp 2018 this month sponsored by The Berea Fine Arts Club. Likely no more comments like “Oooh, YUCK!” or “HOW GROSS!” heard from the restrooms’ foyer this year.