The bidding process is underway for the renovation of Carnegie Elementary School, 301 Franklin Ave.
Bids are due April 3, with a final decision by the Carlynton Board of Directors expected at the board’s legislative meeting on Tuesday, April 15. Construction is expected to start in June and take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete.
“This project not only addresses current infrastructural and educational needs but also strategically positions the Carlynton School District for future growth and excellence,” said John W. Kreider, superintendent of schools.
The renovation is taking place with enhanced learning environments, accessibility, compliance with educational standards, economic investment, safety improvements and increased capacity in mind.
In addition to adding new classrooms, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems will be modernized.
The project includes the addition of restroom facilities that can be accessed during community events at the stadium.
Safety and accessibility features are in the works, as well as the removal of asbestos and other environmental health measures.
“Safety is a top priority, with upgrades including fire alarm systems and secure access points, alongside the addition of ADA-compliant features,” Kreider said.
The project ensures the school will meet or exceed ADA compliance, making it accessible for all students and staff. It also includes the addition of restroom facilities that can be accessed during community events at the stadium.
Other safety improvements will bring the school up to current standards with enhanced structural integrity, fire safety systems and secure access points. A safer student drop-off and pick-up area at the rear of the building and interior doors equipped with upgraded locks to better secure classroom doors are also planned.
A community-focused cafetorium is being designed as a flexible area for large group instruction and community gatherings in addition to dining and events.
Mt. Lebanon-based DRAW Collective is the architect of record overseeing the design, while Massaro Construction Group of O’Hara Township will oversee the construction and project execution as the construction manager.
This is the first comprehensive renovation project for Carnegie Elementary, originally built in 1954. Two previous renovation projects in the 1980s and in 2013 focused on façade, front facing windows, building entrance and air conditioning.
“The renovation of Carnegie Elementary is a transformative project designed to significantly enhance our educational facilities, making them safer, more accessible, and better suited to the demands of today’s learning environments,” Kreider said.
Updates include a reimagined library and designated areas for STEM and music instruction.
Carnegie Elementary School currently has a student enrollment between 410 and 425 students, 41 teachers and 18 support staff. Capacity will be increased by adding new classrooms while maintaining smaller class sizes and specialized instruction spaces, catering to special education and focuses math/reading programs.
The renovation also increases the number of parking spaces and provides a dedicated, traffic-free hard surface area for recess.
“This investment is crucial, not only for enhancing student learning, but also for elevating the entire community, potentially increasing local property values and attracting new families. This project will ensure Carnegie Elementary remains a cornerstone of education in our district,” Kreider pointed out.
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