SALISBURY — Supporters of Salisbury High School cleared a big hurdle recently when they handed over a $145,900 check to air condition the school gym.

The Gym Enhancement group has been led by two co-chairmen — former principal Dr. Windsor Eagle and alumnus Ronnie Smith.

On Aug. 25, Eagle and Smith presented the check to Superintendent Dr. Lynn Moody, Principal Luke Brown and Athletic Director Dale Snyder.

Just four days later, construction was completed in the early afternoon. Students attending the first day of school were treated to a newly air conditioned gym.

That evening, the Salisbury High volleyball team had a match against Albemarle in the newly air conditioned gym. In the upcoming weeks, 10 new security cameras will also be installed to help with gym security.

The air conditioning is part of a push to improve athletic facilities at Salisbury High, one that began while Eagle was still principal of the school.

In 2010, phase 1 of gym renovations through the Field House Project were completed. This included a new classroom and bathroom in the existing gym building. After completion of this construction, the fundraising focus turned to the first part of phase 2, which included adding air conditioning to the gym and upgrading security.

Salisbury High School officials expressed appreciation for the Gym Enhancement Board of Directors’ hard work, and for the countless other community members who donated to the cause.