After nearly a year of construction, slowly but surely the new Arroyo gymnasium is coming close to its finished product. Arroyo’s new gym will include newly installed air conditioning, new murals all over the walls, brand-new wood flooring, and more.

 Originally the school gymnasium was going to be completed by Thanksgiving. Now the estimated time for the completion is after winter break. “We’re probably looking at maybe a two-week delay, but in that two-week delay there is also going to be a brand new floor. So to me, I’ll gladly take a two-week delay to ensure that we have a brand new floor as well as a painted ceiling,” said Principal Gabriel Flores

Unfortunately because of this extended time, the winter assembly was not able to be held traditionally at the gym. The performing arts teachers came together and decided that most likely the winter assembly will be held on the stadium field. “They’re still working on logistics to make sure that we’re ready for that.  It’s just it’s too monumental to make the whole thing up,
so they’re shooting for the end of December as well before we go on break to have an event in the stadium for our students.” said principal Gabriel Flores.

Although the winter assembly has been held in the gymnasium for years, this project will create a better environment and comfortable area. Many complaints about the heat have been made by athletes, students, and staff. “So I think it’s a really important construction project. Obviously with all the sports and athletics we have in the gym, how hot it is for basically half the year, it has been a real safety concern. In the past we’ve had people fainting or feeling sick due to the heat. It’s disappointing but it’s for an important project,” said choir teacher Jennifer Stanley.

Fortunately for the underclassman the gym will be ready for their next school year. “I’m so excited to play basketball on the new gym court it’s going to be amazing.The updated design will look so much better, and the court will be so much cleaner, making it an even better place to play and enjoy the game,” said junior Jagger Casteneda. Volleyball, basketball and wrestling will all be able to practice during their original schedule once the gymnasium is completed.

“I’m excited for the completion of the gym. Although I won’t be able to enjoy it next year, I’m very happy our school is getting a new look for the next students to come.”, said senior Marc Lopez.