Groundbreaking today for Mooney's $5M renovation project

YOUNGSTOWN

Nick Blasko considers himself highly fortunate to be receiving what he sees as a holistic education at his beloved Cardinal Mooney High School.

Adding to his positive feelings is the realization that he will be able to continue his pursuits in a newly improved and upgraded building.

“Being here has inspired me to be closer to God, to have faith in Jesus. It also has encouraged me to study and push myself to the limits,” Blasko said.

The Canfield sophomore was among the students, local dignitaries, elected officials, religious leaders and others who attended a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday to usher in the first phase of a $5 million renovation project to get underway Wednesday at the school, 2545 Erie St., on the South Side.

Improvements to the 59-year-old school will include remodeling its exterior, adding four wheelchair-accessible ramps inside and installing a new roof, tile flooring, energy-efficient windows, lighting and reflective ceilings.

In addition, cafeteria renovations will be made and an improved heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system will be added, noted P.J. Fecko, Mooney’s director of facilities.

The project will be in three phases and should wrap up by late summer 2017, Fecko added.

Sparking the effort is a gift from Denise DeBartolo York and her brother, Eddie DeBartolo Jr., both of whom are Mooney graduates.

Read more about the plans in Friday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.