Building Committee Considers Construction Choices

The Secondary School Building Committee (SSBC) met on Tuesday night and watched a presentation by Scott Robbins from Vanderweil Engineers about heating/cooling systems for new school buildings.

Robbins is one of a couple of subcontractors who have come before the SSBC to familiarize them with state-of-the-art systems and current building codes.

Robbins explained theories and models of air circulation and displacement of room air. The committee considered environmental codes and air systems that comply with them.

He informed the committee that the architect has to consider anticipated conditions such as highly humid weather, hot weather, drainage off of flat roof construction from heavy rain and snow, and ventilation of exhaust so that the construction crew gets it right. He also mentioned some cost saving solutions including shutting the system down during periods of non-use.

Superintendent of Building and Grounds Wayne Hardacker said he has been researching other districts and gathering information about how well different systems are working in school settings.

"What is in our best interest?" asked Hardacker. "The answer isn't clear at this point."

The Owner's Project Manager, Chris Simmler asked to have the cost per square foot calculated for each of the alternate system options.

The committee made the decision to form a subcommittee to analyze the options once Simmler is able to fully discuss details with Architect Brad Dore.