Project Updates

October 22, 2026

Schematic Design Progress and Upcoming Milestones

The project continues to progress well, with significant coordination occurring among the design team, consultants, SAU staff, Harvey Construction, and various regulatory officials. The team is currently advancing the schematic design documents, with a focus on refining the scope, evaluating cost-effective solutions, and ensuring the project budget appropriately accounts for the necessary improvements.

Site Design and Civil Engineering

• Wetlands and Stream Deliniation: The civil engineer flagged Beaver Brook Stream last week and is incorporating this information into the existing conditions survey. This will allow the team to evaluate applicable wetlands and stream setbacks and determine whether there are any potential impacts to the proposed site improvements.

• Traffic Circulation: The team is working through site circulation and traffic management, including accommodating 14 buses in the bus loading area and approximately 130 vehicles within the parent drop-off/pick-up loop.

• Building Access: A new vestibule entrance is being incorporated at the gymnasium/cafeteria area to provide a designated entrance for parent drop-off.

• Site Improvements: Vertical granite curbing is proposed at bus and parent drop-off locations, with asphalt berms along the remaining roadways and asphalt sidewalks throughout the site. These approaches are intended to provide durable, functional improvements while managing costs.

• Playground and Basketball Court: Both will be relocated to accommodate the proposed site layout. The team has been in contact with the company that recently completed the school's playground to obtain pricing for the proposed relocation.

• Septic System: The new septic system is currently proposed to be located within the rear field.

Mechanical Systems

• The existing mechanical systems have been thoroughly evaluated, and the equipment has been determined to be at or near the end of its useful life. As a result, the project will include complete replacement of the mechanical systems.

• The design team is focusing on straightforward, efficient, and maintainable systems that will provide long-term reliability while balancing initial construction costs and ongoing operational expenses.

• Air conditioning will be provided in the administrative spaces, gymnasium, and cafeteria, with dehumidification provided throughout the remaining areas of the building.

• Following project approval, the team will coordinate with the utility companies to identify and pursue available energy-efficiency rebates.

Structural Engineering

• The structural review has progressed favorably. The existing Tectum structural roof deck has been evaluated and determined to be in good condition, allowing it to remain in place rather than requiring full replacement. This represents a significant opportunity for cost avoidance.

• An allowance will be incorporated into the project budget for structural reinforcing where necessary.

• Harvey Construction will evaluate and price both wood and steel structural systems for the proposed additions. While wood construction may initially appear less expensive, the team will consider the associated fire code requirements and other construction implications to determine the most cost-effective overall solution.

Architectural Design and Agency Coordination

• The architectural design continues to advance, supported by regular coordination meetings with the engineering consultants, SAU staff, Fire Department, building and code officials, and the New Hampshire Department of Education.

• The design team recently met with the Fire Department, which was generally supportive of the concepts and layouts presented. One recommendation was to add a fire hydrant at the rear of the school building, which will be incorporated into the ongoing site design evaluation.

• Harvey Construction has been actively participating in design coordination meetings and providing ongoing input regarding constructability and potential cost impacts. This early involvement is helping the team identify opportunities for savings and address potential cost concerns before the design progresses further.

Upcoming Schedule and Milestones

The project remains on track for the following upcoming milestones:

Date Milestone

October 23, 2026 Schematic Design documents issued to Harvey Construction for pricing

October 23 - November 13, 2026 Harvey prepares updated construction pricing based on the schematic design documents

November 13, 2026 Updated construction pricing received by Trident and design team for review

November 13-17, 2026 Review pricing, evaluate scope and budget, and make necessary refinements

November 17, 2026 Public presentation

November 19, 2026 School Board meeting 

Overall Project Status

The project is progressing positively, with the design and engineering evaluations helping to clarify the scope of work and identify opportunities to manage construction costs. The team continues to focus on ensuring that necessary building improvements are addressed while avoiding unnecessary expenditures.