As I reported last month, changing the coating of the steam lines to a zinc base, while worthwhile in terms of reduced cost, has caused us to slip the schedule by two months. We have had additional problems in the last month. Because of an early freeze, we were not able to break ground for the laboratory addition. We estimate that this setback will cost us six months for that part of the project. Because of the increased time involved, we will incur additional labor costs. We will therefore be over budget by approximately $56,000.
Impact of the early freeze confined to laboratory addition. No one could have anticipated the severity of the October 20 freeze, the worst in 25 years. The schedule, as outlined in our original proposal and as revised last month, was predicated on more normal temperatures. Naturally, this affects only the laboratory addition. Renovations to the main plant itself, where we have already "closed the envelope," or made the building weather-tight, will progress on the schedule we set forth last month.
Renovations to main plant close to revised schedule. We have completed the new flooring and all major rewiring. We have also replaced all light fixtures. This month we will be testing the flooring's ability to bear the new equipment. (All equipment was delivered on schedule. It has been stored in the yard for the past month under weather-proof sheathing.)
