District Approves Keystone Fire for $1.08M Alarm Upgrade at Four Schools
September 06, 2025 | Upper Dublin SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
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In the quiet yet bustling atmosphere of the Upper Dublin School District's Finance Committee Meeting, members gathered to address pressing issues surrounding school infrastructure and safety. The meeting, held on August 20, 2025, revealed significant developments in two major projects: the roof replacement and the fire alarm system upgrade.
As discussions unfolded, concerns were raised about the roofing materials used in a recent replacement project. An architect detailed the challenges faced due to the deterioration of pressure-treated plywood, which had been selected to avoid ongoing lawsuits related to fire-treated plywood. This decision, while proactive, led to complications as the pressure-treated wood began to curl over time. The architect's diligent inspections ensured that all compromised materials were replaced, culminating in a change order of $265,000. Despite the unforeseen costs, committee members expressed relief that the work was completed before the school year commenced, highlighting the collaborative efforts that made this possible.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing saga of the fire alarm replacement project, which has been in the works since November of the previous year. After two unsuccessful bidding cycles, where all bids exceeded budget estimates, the committee explored alternative procurement options. They found a viable solution through a CoStar's contract with Keystone Fire and Security, which proposed a total cost of $1,088,327.17 for upgrades across four district buildings. This plan aims to ensure that the majority of the work is completed during the summer months, minimizing disruption to the school year.
As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed optimism about moving forward with these critical projects. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to maintaining safe and functional learning environments for its students, while also navigating the complexities of construction and budgeting. With these projects on track, the Upper Dublin School District looks ahead to a promising school year, bolstered by the recent improvements.
As discussions unfolded, concerns were raised about the roofing materials used in a recent replacement project. An architect detailed the challenges faced due to the deterioration of pressure-treated plywood, which had been selected to avoid ongoing lawsuits related to fire-treated plywood. This decision, while proactive, led to complications as the pressure-treated wood began to curl over time. The architect's diligent inspections ensured that all compromised materials were replaced, culminating in a change order of $265,000. Despite the unforeseen costs, committee members expressed relief that the work was completed before the school year commenced, highlighting the collaborative efforts that made this possible.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing saga of the fire alarm replacement project, which has been in the works since November of the previous year. After two unsuccessful bidding cycles, where all bids exceeded budget estimates, the committee explored alternative procurement options. They found a viable solution through a CoStar's contract with Keystone Fire and Security, which proposed a total cost of $1,088,327.17 for upgrades across four district buildings. This plan aims to ensure that the majority of the work is completed during the summer months, minimizing disruption to the school year.
As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed optimism about moving forward with these critical projects. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to maintaining safe and functional learning environments for its students, while also navigating the complexities of construction and budgeting. With these projects on track, the Upper Dublin School District looks ahead to a promising school year, bolstered by the recent improvements.
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