SKW Project Featured in Local Media

After experiencing damaging tornadoes in March 2006, Pettis County, MO, sought grants to construct eight storm shelters at various locations for a safe place for schools and people without basements during tornadoes. SKW assisted the County with the grant application, and in September 2007, the County received notification of fund availability from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to pay for the first three shelters in Smithton, Maplewood and La Monte. Additional sites currently under construction include Hughesville, Houstonia, Green Ridge, and two shelters in Sedalia - all which have received FEMA funding.

"When completed, our ‘shelter from the storm' project will provide safe haven to nearly 80% of our rural residents who do not have basements," said Pettis County Commissioner Rusty Kahrs. "With Pettis County's history of devastating storms, this public safety project will most certainly save lives."

As plans went forward, SKW prepared a topographic survey and base map at each location, site work (grading), and structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing design. SKW also prepared construction plans and observed critical item construction.

Each single-story structure is equipped with heating, air conditioning and bathrooms, and is designed so a single-story building can be constructed on top of them. Each of the shelters in Smithton, Maplewood and La Monte are 5,000 s.f and can hold 950 people. The Hughesville, Houstonia and Green Ridge shelters will each be 3,000 s.f. and hold 650 people. The two Sedalia shelters will each be 7,500 s.f and hold 1,200 people. Construction on the eight shelters is estimated at $2.9 million, with FEMA paying for 75% and the County providing 25% through donations of land, materials and labor. All shelters are scheduled to be completed by late 2010.

"By providing a safe place for local residents, school children and travelers to seek shelter during bad weather, we are setting Pettis County apart as a community that places public safety to the top of our priority list for our citizens and visitors," said Kahrs.