Project Case Study
A major project in this bond was building a new middle school around the phased demolishment of the existing occupied Turner Middle School site. The new building features state-of-the-art classrooms, advanced technology integration, a media center, and collaborative learning spaces, all connected by a glass corridor to the school’s renovated performing arts center. Existing locker rooms were also updated and renovated, with added access by an elevated sky bridge walkway.
The team enhanced the site’s accessibility, safety and aesthetics, creating an efficient, welcoming environment while navigating fast-track summer schedules to ensure timely move in for the students and faculty. Other projects included adding new facilities to Turner High School for its culinary program and renovating the elementary school parking lot.
Simultaneously, a new district activity center was constructed adjacent to Turner High School, offering versatile spaces for extracurricular activities, fostering student engagement and community involvement. These competition-level spaces included football and soccer fields, a running track, a full press box with adjoining restrooms and added amenities such as locker rooms for players.
During this process, the team assured students’ safety by restricting access to adjacent areas throughout the school year. The team also implemented comprehensive safety measures, including secure barriers and regular monitoring, wayfinding and consistent communication about potential hazards.
Student & Community Engagement
Together, these projects represent a significant investment in the educational infrastructure while maximizing the district’s dollars to support growth and development of students and enriching the broader community. McCownGordon’s construction approach featured numerous student engagement activities such as guided tours and community events, designed to keep students and community members informed and enthusiastic about the upcoming developments. One way our team engaged with the students was by hiring a senior at the school as a laborer. This opportunity led him to his career as a union carpenter journeyman.
