Construction is currently underway to enhance the infrastructure at Russell Elementary in Smyrna, Ga., a school originally built in 1961 and has undergone multiple renovations and additions. As general contractor for the $1.8 million phased project, Swinerton is currently overseeing the completion of several structural improvements including removal and replacement of 15 rooftop units, five ductless split systems, four exhaust fans, a kitchen ventilation system, and all associated air distribution ductwork; installation of an updated ANSUL® Fire Suppression system along with an upgraded hood in order to decrease the risk of grease fires; upgrade of eight windows, primarily in the kitchen; and replacement of  72,000 square feet of ceiling tile throughout the school. Work will be strategically scheduled during school holiday weeks and short working windows to ensure minimal disruption to the occupied school. The team will plan materials and labor to optimize productivity during these restricted hours, with a concentrated effort during summer break for the more extensive portions of the work. Careful consideration will be made to ensure spaces are fully usable after each segment of work.

At Harrison High School in Kennesaw, Ga., a school originally built in 1991, Swinerton serves as general contractor for the $15.4 million infrastructure upgrades and renovation. The project involves the replacement or installation of over 200 pieces of equipment throughout the school. The structural scope includes conversion of the former home economics room to a new general classroom; upgrades to four restrooms with new fixtures, ADA railings, accessories and paint; replacement of two roof sections; upgrades to 14 rooftop HVAC units; and replacement of the air handler unit. Additionally, a new emergency responder radio repeater system will be installed to enhance emergency communications by improving first responders’ handheld radio signal strength. Swinerton expects to leverage its self-perform expertise for the installation of door frames, hardware and acoustic ceiling tiles. To minimize disruption to the occupied school, work will be strategically scheduled during holiday breaks and short windows of time, with a concentrated effort over two summer breaks for larger tasks. Careful planning ensures all spaces are fully functional after each phase. Extensive preplanning, regular plan reviews, and close collaboration with trade partners will be critical to the success of the project.

Swinerton is providing general contracting services for the construction of Phoenix Montessori Academy’s new campus, approximately doubling the size of the current campus. The new 38,000-square-foot building features a wood-frame with an Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) and is designed to minimize thermal energy loss while allowing builders flexibility in design and exterior finishes. The school can accommodate approximately 450 students from toddler to 12th grade. The building includes 18 classrooms, two toddler rooms for ages 18 months to three years old, an art room, science room, warming kitchen and gymnasium with a full-sized basketball court to accommodate the school’s growing sports program. As general contractor, Swinerton is providing ground-up construction services that include pre- and post-construction site work and design build planning from preconstruction to final product. A parking lot along with landscaping that includes tree plantings, concludes the construction scope. Wolfe Architecture designed the education facility, incorporating nods to the phoenix from the signature red color to lines crossing the building and roofline simulating wings.

Swinerton provided general contracting services for the conversion of a single-story, multi-tenant office building into a new school. The school features 14 classrooms, clinical support spaces, offices, a library, and restrooms. The renovation included a new lunchroom and assembly room to facilitate student development and interaction. Swinerton worked closely with the design team to maintain the existing building elements, including roofing, building envelope, fire and life safety, electrical systems, and HVAC systems.

Swinerton collaborated with the school administration to understand the student needs and provide expertise in regulatory compliance and accessibility, tailoring the space for to diverse student needs. The new school allows Melmark Carolinas to continue supporting students who require specialized special education in a clinically sophisticated environment.

Swinerton provided general contracting services for the construction of a new two-story pre-kindergarten through fifth grade school, and once opened for the community, immediately started building an attached addition for a middle school wing.

The project pushes the envelope in terms of sustainability, as it is the first all-electric school for the district and one of the first all-electric school in Colorado using mass timber construction.

The new elementary school houses classrooms, inquiry zones, a full-service kitchen, a theatrical stage, art rooms, teacher collaboration spaces, and a gymnasium. The building structure uses a combination of a pre-cast concrete exterior, structural steel framing, and mass-timber in the commons and gymnasium. The campus is designed to accommodate future expansions for additional student capacity. Sitework includes new playfields, playgrounds, a parking lot, hardscaping, and landscaping.

Swinerton provided general contracting services for the campuswide modernization of the high school. The multi-phase project consisted of a 254,000-square-foot renovation and the construction of a new 25,000-square-foot auxiliary gymnasium.

Phase 1 was completed during Spring and Summer 2020 when students were out of school. Nearly every classroom was modernized, including the incorporation of school colors and finishes to give the entire building a cohesive modern look. The scope included a locker room demolition/buildout, flooring demolition/replacement, and new interior finishes within public spaces.

Phase 2 consisted of the construction of a new auxiliary gym and a new main entrance. Work included site preparation, relocation of the existing storm and sewer systems, installation of new site utilities, and upgrades to the south parking lot.

Phase 3 consisted of the demolition and construction of a new large canopy at the school’s main entrance. The canopy provides shade for seating and socializing. Enhancements were also made to the front office and a new secured vestibule was added to provide state-of-the-art monitoring capabilities for the office staff and school security.