Renovations moving along at Urbana elementary school transitioning to sixth grade center

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The shutdown of K-5 Wiley Elementary School in Urbana was a divisive topic for many. So much so the school board’s vote to start a facelift and conversion into a sixth grade center was a tight 4-3 in favor.

Now, construction is just under a year into the process, and it is moving fast.

Project leaders said they are right on schedule in laying the foundation for the 30,000 square foot addition to the school. Workers aren’t holding anything back.

Heavy machinery is everywhere, and the foundation is taking shape. Crews of up to 35 people are here daily, and they’re even working overtime to make sure this gets done.

That’s because everyone knows how vital this project is, including the company doing the work.

“Getting as much as we can before the winter gets too bad. We have a really tight deadline on this,” said RJ Hynds, President of English Brothers Company. “I’m hoping to be done by July 30th, 2025, in time for school next year. That’s trying to beat the weather. Beat the cold weather is our biggest challenge right now, but I think we can handle it.”

Once the foundation is laid, Hynds said renovations are next. A complete gut of the existing facility is coming to make sure the Urbana Middle School Sixth Grade Center is top notch.

Hynds also said it’s been great working with the Urbana School District. Anytime he gets to work on a project that helps the community, he’s happy to help.

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