April 2010 – Inver Grove Heights, MN – While area students are counting the days until summer vacation, such is not the case for Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates. KOMA continues to play a major role in the renovations of local schools, in many cases bringing to bear all three of their service areas – structural engineering, architecture and interior design.
An update on KOMA’s involvement:
At Park High School, Cottage Grove: For the past two years, KOMA has been part of the team designing and observing the construction of major renovations to the existing Park High School. Their work involves a complete remodel of the science rooms, a new exterior, installation of high-efficiency windows throughout, a new wrestling room, student commons, and administrative office additions, and the overhaul of the mechanical systems (with lead engineering firm, Martin Pevzner Engineering). This summer, KOMA will be part of the school’s next major piece of interior remodeling: renovation of all existing student bathrooms, new student lockers, repainting of all hallways, and replacement of all casework in all classrooms and several common areas.
At Hillside Elementary School, Cottage Grove: For the fourth consecutive summer, KOMA is part of the design and construction observation team on a “prototype” elementary school renovation. Similar to Pullman, Pine Hill and Crestview Elementary Schools, Hillside will receive new high-efficiency HVAC equipment and ductwork fed and screened from the roof, as well as new ceilings, casework and student restrooms.
At Newport Elementary School, Newport: The Newport Elementary School is the oldest school in the South Washington County School District (ISD 833) and has been added to, renovated and reconfigured several times over its more than 60-year history. This summer, the school will receive an upgrade similar to that of Hillside Elementary, only in a slightly different configuration because of the unique characteristics of the building.