Taos Plaza Gazebo Phase II Construction Meeting
October 2nd - Overall, the renovations of the Taos Plaza gazebo are on track and should be completed on, or near target dates announced. Any minor issues (such as inclement weather and/or logistical hindrances) that may have caused slight delays in weeks past have been resolved; and an extraordinary cast of laborers, sub-contractors and specialists has kept key components of the renovation high on the priority list. Many foundational elements (such as electrical tracing, rebar prefabrication/assembly and form-building) were completed during this time period, allowing tasks to shift from demolition to build-mode.
As a result, the last three weeks of work have produced visibly stark contrasts, and noticeable (from afar) advancements to the structure. A summary of the work progress to date was provided by R&M Construction; which included a recap of critical work sequencing and a standard safety outline. There were no accidents to report, and safety (especially since work on the two roof decks place workers on top of the gazebo beams and affixed planks), is a point of emphasis shared by all construction personnel involved in the project. Demolition of the subterranean rooms below the gazebo are complete.
Additionally, one of the stairways leading to the basement has been sealed, leaving a solitary set of steps as the access to those rooms. The concrete A.D.A. ramp on the north side of the stage, a tree planter and stage extensions have been poured. The primary roof decking (structural layer) has been applied to the support beams of the gazebo covering. Another deck is being built above the primary layer, and should be ready for a corrugated metal covering once electrical runs are complete and fixtures for the specific lighting package are installed. A portion of brick pavers, which were installed temporarily on the north side of the interior plaza, have been removed to make way for a new concrete sidewalk.
Once quality control issues have been assured, with regard to existing electrical and sub-grade water lines, the sidewalk will be poured and the brick pavers will be put back in place. In this same area, oneof-three light poles was removed to make way for a newer design. Aspects of Phase II change orders were listed and an update on their status was discussed. Change orders included: adjustments to electrical feeds (such as a more practical conduit to house long runs to the new lampposts and beyond); amounts of concrete needed for finished grades; matching metal railings (expressly for A.D.A. ramp); and updates to the dimensions of said railings to satisfy safety requirements; unspecified changes to subterranean rooms below the stage; and a cursory modification to the octagonal fascia of the gazebo roof.