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Change order of $100K+ sought after missing fire‑damper detail found in new 6–12 campus plans
Summary
A construction oversight in the 6–12 campus project left required fire dampers out of the installed ductwork; contractors and TDA reported the ductwork was already in service, requiring removal and retrofit. The board reviewed the change order and heard staff plan to pursue cost recovery through project partners.
The Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education reviewed a high‑value change order on May 14 after project staff and contractors identified that required fire dampers were not shown in the project drawings for duct penetrations through fire‑rated assemblies in the new 6–12 campus.
TDA and contractor representatives told the board the ductwork was already installed and systems were running, so adding code‑required fire dampers now requires partial demolition and reconnection. A TDA representative summarized: “typically when there are duct penetrations through a firewall, we do need a fire damper,” and explained the additional cost reflects re‑work and reinstallation.
Board members and staff described the item as a serious oversight in the construction documents and noted the cost consequences are higher when the work is performed after systems are in place. The superintendent said district staff will meet with OFCC (Ohio Facilities Construction Commission) representatives, TDA and the contractor to review omissions and seek recovery where warranted.
Board action and next steps The board approved the change order (roll call recorded). District officials said they will pursue conversations with OFCC and project partners to resolve omissions and determine cost responsibility. No timeline for resolution or recovery amounts was finalized at the meeting.
