Progress continues on BCSD construction projects. Since the last community meeting in October, significant strides have been made on the various components of the project, particularly when preparing drawings for the new high school.
Over the last few months, architects have been finalizing the “guaranteed maximum price” (GMP) documents for the new high school. These highly detailed construction drawings are crucial for accurate cost estimation prior to the start of construction. They are the culmination of extensive work from district administrators and design and construction professionals. Once completed, they will be used by Hammond Construction, the Construction-Manager-at-Risk, to set a contract price. A “page turn” meeting with the district, OFCC, and Hammond Construction allowed the team to double-check all details in the over 500-page drawing set.
After this step, the design team will finish the full set of construction documents by the end of February. These final drawings are then used to bid and construct the new high school.
Additionally, exterior site work has been completed at Applewood and Kidder Elementary Schools, which includes new parking lots. These new parking lots will improve safety and site circulation. Design work is currently underway for classroom additions at each elementary school. Applewood Elementary will receive four new classrooms, while Kidder Elementary will add two new kindergarten classrooms and a multipurpose room. These expansions will accommodate future growth in the elementary school population and serve our communities effectively.
Site preparation for the new high school is progressing steadily. Demolition of the former Towslee Elementary has been completed, and crews are actively preparing the site for construction. This includes the installation of site utilities such as storm and sanitary sewer lines along with water and gas supply lines. Final grading and stabilization of the building pad are also underway, and this will ultimately accommodate the new school's foundation.
The district anticipates a groundbreaking ceremony for the new high school in April or May.
Aerial photos of the New High School Site from September 2024, Courtesy of Hammond Construction
Construction has officially begun on the new Maintenance Facility, located at the former Willetts Middle School site. This project has been prioritized because the existing maintenance facility is located in the footprint of the future high school campus layout. Business operations and personnel have already relocated (temporarily) to the Board of Education office, however, the essential equipment needed for daily operations must stay in the current maintenance building until the new facility is complete.
The former Willetts campus will also be home to the new Board of Education office. These new buildings will significantly enhance the district's administrative and operational capabilities to better serve the Brunswick community.
This update provides a glimpse into the exciting progress being made on these important construction projects. The district remains committed to keeping the community informed throughout this process.
Imagery of the new Maintenance Facility as of January 2025