Construction at the Stoneham Middle-Central School site is expected to resume Oct. 29, according to a press statement from Superintendent Dr. Les Olson's office.

"At its Oct. 22 meeting, the School Building Committee approved a contract with Shawmut Design and Construction for the next phase of the Middle/Central School construction project," reads the statement "This phase will include the relocation of site utilities and the installation of Geo-Piers to stabilize the underlying soils prior to the commencement of actual foundation work and construction next spring.

"This current phase of construction will begin around Oct. 29 and is scheduled to be finished in December."

Demolition of the aging middle school building began in late August shortly before the school year got underway.

According to the statement, the scheduled utility work to relocate the water and sewer lines outside of the building foundation requires a minor change to the on-site walking and student drop-off/pick-up procedures.

"The schedule for the first 5-7 days calls for the replacement of the lines between the Central School main entrance and the construction fence," reads the statement. "On these days, construction will begin after the morning drop-off and end prior to dismissal; the noon-hour kindergarten dismissal will be shifted to the tot-lot area. To further ensure student safety, jersey barriers will be installed to separate the construction area from the school.

"After this work is completed, construction will shift for another 5-7 days to the area between the east wing of the Middle School and the construction fence. For these few days, a new, temporary walkway will be designated to direct walkers around the construction zone."

The Building Committee appreciates the support and cooperation of the staff, parents and students with these changes as we work to keep the project moving forward, reads the statement. The school principals will inform parents, students and staff of the specific dates that these changes will be in place, the statement added.

For more information, contact Dr. Les Olson at 781-279-3802.