J. Benton Donates Parts and Labor to Fix Years-Old Claude O. Markoe Kitchen Issue Before School Opens

ST. CROIX — J. Benton Construction has committed to donating the parts and labor needed to complete a long-unresolved gas line connection and install an ice machine in the kitchen at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School, with the work expected to be completed in time for the opening of school on Aug. 10. The intervention follows coordination among Sen. Kurt Vialet’s office, J. Benton Construction, the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance and the V.I. Department of Education. According to Vialet’s office, problems involving the kitchen gas line have affected operations at the school for several years. James Benton and his construction team agreed to supply the materials and labor needed to finish the outstanding work at no cost. “Ensuring that our schools are prepared to welcome students and staff requires cooperation, urgency, and a genuine commitment to our community,” Senator Vialet said. “Mr. Benton and his team responded when they learned about the need at Claude O. Mar...