Architects: Sam A. Winn & Associates Architects PC

Sam A. Winn & Associates Architects PC is the architect for a tornado shelter for West Plains R-VII School District. J.R. Haney Associates Consulting Engineers is the structural engineer and LaRose & Schober Engineering Inc. is the mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineer. Travis Snelling Construction is the general contractor for the structure, which comprises more than 20,000 square feet. The multipurpose shelter, which has an estimated cost of $3.26 million, has a full-service kitchen, telescopic bleachers and athletic equipment. The adjoining two-story facility serves as a new primary entrance and commons area for the school and houses the entire administrative staff on the upper level. The lower level comprises restroom facilities, a concessions area and an entrance to the multipurpose facility. The entire addition is designed to serve the school and the surrounding community as a Federal Emergency Management Agency-approved tornado shelter. In case of any severe weather event, the shelter will be able to house 2,800. Completion is slated for July.