Status of D.C. Public Schools Relating to Readiness for the 1998-1999 School Year

Good Morning Mr. Chairman. My name is Arthur Turowski and I am the Director of Portfolio Management for the Public Buildings Service of the National Capital Region at the General Services Administration (GSA). Thank you for inviting me here today to provide testimony that will assist with the review and evaluation of the activities associated with the completion of the repairs of the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) facilities.

Last January, GSA informed this Committee of GSA's involvement in assisting DCPS with various repair and replacement work to its facilities during 1997. That work included boilers, windows, roofs and structures.

In 1998, at DCPS request, we have continued that assistance by providing complete project services to replace the roofs of 8 school buildings. The work had a value of $7.5 million and was completed within budget and on time for the beginning of the 1998/99 school year. Because of the lead times associated with window fabrication, GSA advised DCPS that completion of that work could not be assured until 1999. GSA was not tasked with this project, but we understand selected window work is programmed for completion next year.

I would add that our dealings with DCPS have grown more efficient over the entire time we have assisted them. Decisions, information and funds have flowed between us more smoothly and this has contributed to successful projects. Based on our past experience, we would certainly be willing to continue the partnership.

This concludes my testimony. I am happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you Mr. Chairman. I will be happy to respond to any questions the Committee may have.