Buildings on the campus of Santa Monica Alternative School House (SMASH) and John Muir Elementary School have been tented this week due to pest management at the site.
Through Feb. 6, all buildings on the campus (with the exception of six bungalows) are being treated for termites, with this week focusing on drywood termite treatment and Feb. 5-6 honing in on subterranean termite treatment. For drywood treatment, buildings will be treated with Viking Gas Fumigant, and the perimeter will be treated with Altiset for subterranean termites.
Deputy Bond Program Manager Kevin Klaus noted that the district, following its integrated pest management protocol, "has attempted to manage this issue diligently with non-toxic methods, with limited success."
The treatments are part of the John Muir/SMASH Water Intrusion Project, which encompasses a "complete overhaul" of roofing systems, stucco, windows, doors and interior finishes "as well as significant structural upgrades to meet current building code requirements."
Removal of interior drywall and mold at the campus, which was closed in fall of 2022 due to these issues, is anticipated to be completed shortly. The Division of the State Architect is currently looking at plans for campus buildings, and approval on such plans will allow construction to commence. The project is anticipated to be completed by fall of 2025.
thomas@smdp.com
