The new R. Roger Rowe School construction continues on pace, according to school district officials, racing towards a Sept. 7 date with the opening of the new school year.
Ah-Ha was there Friday, July 2, checking out the scene so you could check out the latest images. Also attached are files showing the architect's design outlines as well as a project fact sheet.
"Those of us on campus every day cannot help but notice the incremental changes," school officials said. "Yet, it is still striking to consider how far we have come."
The new Rowe School is a beginning, for sure, but also represents the culmination of a process that took upwards of 15 years as school officials sought to find a solution to overcrowding in the unique, one-school district.
Several proposals to locate a separate middle school or relocate the Village campus went down to narrow defeats in bond proposals. Following a lengthy public process, the district finally passed a comprehensive bond issue to build up rather than build elsewhere. A previous passed bond also has partially contributed to the new school's constructon.
The $34 million project was funded, in large part, by Proposition E passed by voters in 2008 and Proposition K, passed by voters in 2004. State matching funds and private donations funded the rest of the project.
Construction began in earnest last summer.
The 14-month project is replacing all portable classrooms and restrooms with new two-story buildings, according to Gafcon, Inc., the project manager. Trittipo Architecture & Planning, architect; C.W. Driver, general contractor; Burkett and Wong Engineers, structural and civil engineer; ILA Zammit, electrical engineer; Merrick and Associates, mechanical engineer; and David Reed and Associates, landscape engineers, also were involved in the project.
Now being completed, according to Gafcon officials:
- Renovating and replacing five aging permanent buildings up to modern standards;
- Constructing a new performing arts/multi-purpose building with two learning courtyards;
- Providing a new technology center, science labs and music rooms;
- Upgrading utilities, equipment and furnishings;
- Adding parking and improving traffic circulation around the school;
- Renovating the playground and sports field.
The project has involved an aggressive construction schedule, Gafcon managers added.
