Darien's Hindley, Holmes & Royle School Building Projects Delayed

DARIEN, CT — The Hindley, Holmes & Royle Building Committee this week took action to delay the start of construction on the school building renovation projects to allow for the rebidding of trade packages.

The decision to delay was based on information and recommendations provided by the town’s construction manager, O&G/AP.

"The simultaneous renovation of three schools is a complex project," the building committee said in a news release Thursday. "The HHRBC wants to ensure they provide a quality product to the schools’ students and teachers that meet the expectations originally set for this project. The HHRBC is working with the Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, and the school district to effectively collaborate with the town to provide the best quality product."

The initial schedule had construction beginning this summer with a completion date slated for fall 2025, Superintendent of Darien Public Schools Dr. Alan Addley said in a letter to elementary school families and staff.

Construction is now anticipated to begin in the spring/summer 2024 with a completion date in fall 2026.

Addley pointed out that deferring the projects for a full year will be much less disruptive to teaching and learning within Hindley, Holmes and Royle in the upcoming school year.

"Royle and Holmes schools and fields will run as normal this fall. At the Hindley campus, the playground has been relocated and a new portable classroom has been installed," the building committee noted.

Addley said as part of summer planning, principals, maintenance and custodial staff "will ensure a smooth transition to the upcoming school year for our HHR families, staff and students."

The building committee's most recent meeting can be viewed here.