The third community meeting for the new PA building design was held on Oct. 25 by S.B. Ballard and HBA Architects representatives–specifically focusing on the schematic design (which lays out more concrete specifications) after previous meetings on the conceptual design. This marks the 30% stage of project development.
Some of the changes made in response to feedback on the conceptual design from the previous community meetings include the addition of an “iconic entry” (see 3D renderings), flexible learning spaces that can be used for group/individual work or One Lunch seating, and green roofs on the second and third floors. The project team is also considering replacing the outdoor basketball courts with an additional practice field, and depending on pricing, adding auditorium seats (from 750 in the current design to 1100) and/or a parking garage to save space.
At this meeting, some community suggestions included permanent seating instead of open space in the schola (a small indoor/outdoor auditorium), changing the layout of the band area (e.g. storage and a tower for marching band), and adding safety railings to the outdoor terraces. Attendees praised the large classrooms and wanted to add display cases along the main hallway through the school in order to celebrate student achievements.
VBCPS executive director of facilities services Melissa Ingram emphasized that the design is still open to change: “We’re still going to be able to turn offices around, turn doors around, move where the clinic is in regard to the special education center–things like that that come out even after the 30%. So this is not the last time we are reviewing these designs.”
For the next step, S.B. Ballard Construction Company will use the design to calculate a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) for VBCPS, meaning S.B. Ballard will absorb any additional construction costs after the GMP has been reached. Sometime between November and February, the project will need approval from the School Board and City Council to move into the construction phase with a comprehensive agreement, a formal contract between VBCPS and S.B. Ballard.
More information can be found at vbschoolsofthefuture.com/.
