Operating costs expected to drop after renovations.

LAKE LINDEN -- Replacing buildings, old windows, heat systems and more could save three districts in the Keweenaw thousands of dollars in operating costs annually.

Hancock, Houghton and Lake Linden School Districts all passed bond proposals last year--Houghton for $12.5 million in project money, Hancock for $8.8 million and Lake Linden for $3.5 million.

Constructions crews are busy at Hancock High School preparing to put up walls for the 38,000 square foot Middle School addition to the High School, projected to be finished by December.

"The total savings for the district we estimate at about $225,000 in annual savings," said Superintendent John Vaara.  'That includes a lot of things."

And across the Portage Canal, a new wing is being built to the Houghton Middle/Senior High School for a new gymnasium, band room, as well as technology and energy upgrades in the buildings.

"Almost immediately we began to see results," said Superintendent Bilk Polkinghorne.  "We changed over the lights and almost immediately began to see results as far as the use of electricity."

In Lake Linden, crews are replacing the aging gymnasium, heat system, windows, doors, floor coverings and more.

"Our community has been very supportive," said Superintendent Randy Roberts, "and we have a great deal of involvement in our buildings with our community."

Bond monies will also improve grounds and athletic facilities.  Hancock will resurface a field for football and put in a new track.  Lake Linden is also redoing their football field and track.