Driving down Jarvis Avenue, it’s difficult to miss the newest addition to Sullivan School’s campus: A blue-roofed pavilion that stretches the entire length of the outdoor basketball courts and stands more than 30 feet tall.
The pavilion was made possible thanks to funding from the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), which was established as part of the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act in 2020. The multi-use, open-air pavilion creates a recreational and educational space that provides fresh air and additional space for students, explained HPS Maintenance Administrator Sean Sheedy.
Construction on the pavilion began on September 1, 2024 following a public bidding process. The shelter was engineered specifically for Sullivan’s basketball courts and was built by West Springfield-based Larochelle Construction. Workers officially completed the construction in mid-April, and students immediately sprang into action making use of the pavilion during lunch, after school, and during class time.
“We are very fortunate to be able to have this space on campus,” said Sullivan Principal Rue Ratray. “This has already improved our physical fitness programming, recess time for students, and has built a stronger relationship between our school and the surrounding community.”
The pavilion, located on Sullivan School’s front lawn, is open to the public outside of school hours.