Twin Towers construction: board hears progress report; contractors warn of long-lead equipment and propose night shifts to limit disruption

Contractors for the Twin Towers renovation told the Middletown Board of Education on Oct. 24 that foundation work, utility relocations and asbestos abatement were completed over the summer and that structural work will be visible in coming months.

KD&G and Triton representatives described the project phasing: Phase 1A includes a multi-story classroom addition and renovations; Phase 1B covers the new cafeteria and food-service areas. Presenters said excavation and foundation walls are in place and that site work, rebar and concrete preparation are ongoing. A project presenter said masonry walls and visible outside walls are expected to begin forming "in February," and that structural steel will be a key next milestone.

Contractors cautioned the board about supply-chain risks. A presenter explained that some long-lead items -- notably large electrical equipment for service and emergency power -- can take about 13 months to procure: "For instance, the electrical service that we're currently working with your utility company on will take about 13 months for us to get the equipment on-site," they said. The project team said they have preordered many HVAC units that were identified as long-lead items to reduce delay risk.

To limit disruption to students and instruction, the contractors and district staff said they will schedule noisier activities during night shifts and while scholars are not in the building, contain interior work, and coordinate closely with school administrators. A district representative said exterior work will stop at 9 p.m., that some interior work is scheduled after school hours and that staff are door-knocking neighbors to notify them of night work.

Board members asked about delay risk and schedule contingency. Contractors replied they have incorporated lead times into the schedule but acknowledged unknowns remain and noted proactive ordering where possible. Presenters directed questions and construction inquiries to a project-specific email address and said project photos and updates are posted on the district website.

What happens next: contractors expect continued site and structural work through the school year; the district and contractors will continue outreach to limit neighborhood and classroom disruption.