Bolivar Schools opens FEMA gym to the public for severe storms

BOLIVAR, Mo. — Bolivar Schools has announced a place for citizens to take cover during any future storm warnings.

The City of Bolivar and the school district has made an agreement to allow public access to the Bolivar Middle School Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) gymnasium outside of schools hours.

This will provide a place for citizens to take cover during emergencies, like a tornado warning.

"This partnership reflects our shared commitment to safety," Michael Methvin, Superintendent of Bolivar Schools, said in a district press release. "By opening the FEMA gym to the public during severe storm warnings, we're using our resources to serve the community in a meaningful and potentially life-saving way."

The FEMA gym was created for Bolivar Middle School students and staff to be safe during emergency situations. The gym was made to withstand major storm events.

The district press release says the school and the city has been working together over the last few months to open the gym up for public use.

"This agreement is a testament to what we can accomplish through strong collaboration," Chief Brent Watkins, Bolivar City Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director, said in the press release. "We want Bolivar residents to know there’s a safe place available when it matters most. This shelter could make all the difference in a critical moment."

During school days, the FEMA gym will be open from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 604 W. Jackson Street in Bolivar.