Iowa City, IA
The historic bell tower overlooking the campus of City High School in Iowa City was constructed in 1938, and is an enduring symbol of the City High legacy. The bell tower provides a link to the past for thousands of people who attended City High, and is the centerpiece to the original architect's design. The Bell Tower, however, was in a state of disrepair and was becoming a hazard to those using the school and dangerous to the structure surrounding the tower.
The project began with a visual review of the bell tower and a report on its condition. This report found deterioration in the tower base, the slate roof, the belfry and both upper and lower cupolas. Shive-Hattery's report recommended renovation as a preferred course of action. After the report was completed a detailed cost opinion was completed and was used by the district in budgeting and fundraising efforts.
The renovation project consists of repairing the structure while avoiding alteration of the tower's distinct architectural features. Deteriorated structural elements and architectural elements were replaced, slate and lead-coated copper roofs of the tower base, belfry and cupola were replaced and new architectural coatings were installed. The tower's lighting scheme was redesigned to give the newly-renovated belltower a dramatic nighttime look.
Shive-Hattery’s services included field investigation, cost opinion, recommendation of repairs, preparation of plans and specifications, coordination of bidding, recommendation of award of contract, construction observation and contract administration.
The project was funded through alumni donations ($104,000) and the remainder through the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL).
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tags: asbestos, high school, historic, masonry