Chatham Park renovation approved for $400000 fund reallocation from Coopertown project

During the Haverford Township School District's School Board Action Meeting on August 21, 2025, significant discussions centered around the financial adjustments necessary for ongoing renovation projects at local schools. The board approved a motion reallocating up to $400,000 from the Coopertown renovation project to the Chatham Park renovation project, a decision driven by unforeseen construction challenges and the need to ensure timely completion ahead of the school year.

The increase in funding from an initially discussed $250,000 to $400,000 was attributed to various unexpected issues that arose during the renovation process. Ken Matthews, a representative from CV Developers, highlighted that the project faced delays due to soft soil conditions and other complications identified during preliminary inspections. He emphasized the importance of having the building ready for students by September 2, noting that the additional funds would serve as a cushion to cover ongoing expenses and ensure all necessary work is completed.

Matthews explained that while the total budget for the project is approximately $32 million, the increase represents just over 1% of the overall budget, placing it within a manageable range for the district. He reassured the board that the building is progressing well, with most areas expected to be ready on time, although the gymnasium may be delayed due to the lengthy installation process of the wood floor.

The board's discussions also touched on lessons learned from the renovation process, particularly regarding the performance of the architectural team. Feedback was provided to improve future project management and minimize similar issues. The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed about the progress of the renovations and any further developments.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to managing construction challenges while prioritizing the timely readiness of school facilities for the upcoming academic year.