JOPLIN, Mo. — Joplin Schools will be able to construct five storm shelters and demolish properties it has acquired around destroyed Joplin High thanks to $2.8 million from federal Community Development block grants.
Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon made the announcement Monday at Emerson Elementary’ s temporary quarters, The Joplin Globe reports. Emerson Elementary is one of five district schools that the funding will go toward, as it was significantly damaged in the May 22, 2011 tornado.
The safe rooms, which will account for about $2.3 million, can also be used as classrooms, gymnasiums or activity areas. The rest of the funding will go toward the demolition of more than 80 properties around Joplin High to prepare the site for a new high school.
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