The age of school replacement projects continues in Calvert County. During their Thursday, Feb. 23 work session the Calvert County Board of Education (BOE) voted unanimously to move forward with a plan to demolish 142,169 gross square feet of Northern High School (NHS) in Owings and replace it with a new 215,500-gross square foot facility.
In explaining the three conceptual plans—renovation, limited revitalization and replacement—architect Ran Ilkovitch of Smolen, Emr, Ilkovitch showed data indicating the latter strategy would met state education specifications and save energy. Its final cost, an estimated $57.95 million would be cheaper than the other two options.
“It’s a no-brainer,” declared BOE Member Dr. Eugene Karol, who made the motion to approve the renovation strategy.
Calvert Supervisor of School Construction George Leah reminded the school board members that the renderings presented were “conceptual, not design. We’re not there yet.” State school construction officials will be shown the conceptual plan as the project begins its journey through the funding process pipeline.
Ilkovitch pointed out the current NHS, which was built during the 1970s when the “open classroom” was considered the trend, has substantial instructional and instructional support deficiencies. Additionally, the structure shows signs of deterioration. Ilkovitch added that using a geothermal mechanical system to heat and cool the replacement school could save the county over $3 million in energy costs during the 35 years following its completion.
Like the renovation and limited replacement options, the approved replacement option mandates the renovation of the adjoining Mary D. Harrison Center.
“They [options] are not always this clear,” said Ilkovitch.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
