Challenge

The original school was built in 1940 with two additions in 1954 and 1967. In 2003, a fire destroyed the core of the original building, leaving a “U” shape building totaling 54,145 sq. ft. Many of the education programs were relocated within the District after the fire. Prior to the project, the District only occupied 9 rooms for the Central Office and Transportation Department, and rented a portion of the building to Senior Citizens and Momentum Church. The original kitchen and cafeteria/multipurpose room were destroyed in the fire. The District was set to meet capacity in the 2009-10 school year and needed to recapture the space previously utilized within the building.

Project Results

CTS developed a project to completely renovate the existing unit building facility and redesign it into a 24 classroom K-1 facility. The project has created a positive learning atmosphere along with exterior building renovations to improve building efficiencies and curb appeal.

The project utilizes energy efficient systems that include ground source geothermal HVAC; temperature control building automation system; space occupancy/CO2 demand controls; lighting retrofit; window/door replacements; restroom/plumbing renovations; classroom/corridor renovations; kitchen remodel; gym renovations; security systems; intercom/ telephone; exterior renovations with parking lot, playground, entrance modifications.

CTS applied for and the District received a $90,000 Illinois Clean Energy Grant for the project. The improvements will save the District over $34,000 in first year energy savings alone.