CHALLENGES

The project replaced an old school building and was designed to be built next to it to incorporate the existing gym. Several challenges were addressed throughout demolition and replacement to make this possible without affecting the ongoing school years. The project budget and timeline were conservative with an 8-month design period and a 16-month construction period made more complicated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This necessitated frequent cost estimations to guide design and construction working closely with the construction manager at risk and key stakeholders.

SERVICES

We provided comprehensive pre-construction owner's representative services overseeing the procurement of design and construction teams, managing professional services, facilitating meetings, controlling the project budget and schedule, reviewing contracts and schedules, and monitoring minority business participation goals. Most importantly, we maintained open communication and managed stakeholder expectations throughout the project's pandemic phase.

OUTCOMES

The project achieved several key milestones and the new school building incorporating the existing gym were completed through the pandemic. We successfully achieved 70% minority and woman-owned business participation for the design team and 40% minority participation for the construction team reiterating a community commitment to diversity and inclusion. While facing several unforeseen challenges, the project carried on thanks to our diligent management and stakeholders’ professionalism ensuring a seamless collaboration culminating in a building its community and students can be proud of for years to come.