I am pleased to annnounce that the school system is advancing a long-needed expansion of the Gunpowder Elementary School parking lot.

In a letter to School board member Julie Henn, Interim Superintendent Verletta White wrote, “We are aware of the need for additional parking spaces at Gunpowder Elementary School and have been working with our fiscal authorities. The project is in the early stages of planning. At this time, we are projecting construction to be scheduled for the summer of 2020 subject to availability of funds and obtaining necessary permits.”

Gunpowder Elementary School ranks 10th in the school system for the fewest parking spaces relative to enrollment.

Last winter, I created a task force to look at traffic conditions along Klausmier Road, and an enlargement of the parking lot at Gunpowder Elementary School was a top priority. I would like to thank my partner on the School Board, Julie Henn, for her advocacy, as well as the parents and community leaders who testified in support.