Rebuilding of the Lakay School in Haiti

Almost a year ago, AGF Steel joined several members of the Institut d’Acier d’Armature du Québec (Quebec Reinforcing Steel Institute) as well as the Canadian Construction Association, to offer a donation of reinforcing steel and wire mesh, via the “Builders Without Borders Foundation”, for the reconstruction of a trade school in Haiti that had been completely destroyed during the 2010 earthquake.

In March 2013, two containers carrying reinforcing steel, wire mesh, and anchors were shipped to Haiti.

In spite of numerous unscheduled events and several logistics, financial and contractual constraints, the work is progressing and the project will likely come to completion. Following are the latest news on the project, collected from Mr. Pierre Boucher from the CCA:

“Ground preparation, namely grading, a new pipeline, infill and the installation of helical piles, was completed at the end of February, and foundation work has begun. Structural steel has recently crossed the border and a Canadian team arrived on site in March to erect the steel structure. The work on the building envelope should start at the beginning of May.

We are expecting further donations for the indoor systems, plumbing, and electrical components of the project. Haitians, including students, will be recruited to participate to the project as much as possible, among other things for painting, drywall installation, door framing, etc.

As for now, the project is proceeding well, but we cannot set a precise date for an official opening. In the meantime, we continue recording videos, pictures, interviews and anecdotes, in order to document for posterity that audacious and rewarding project.”

You may also follow the evolution of the project by reading updated releases on the Canadian Construction Association website, at http://www.cca-acc.com/fr/a-propos-de-lacc/projet-ecole-lakay/projet-ecole-lakay#sthash.okcN0T13.dpuf.