Board approves option B for Manheim Township campus master plan phase 3, authorizes detailed design

The Manheim Township School Board voted on April 22 to adopt option B — the end-zone backdrop — as the official design direction for campus master plan phase 3 and authorized administration and the design team to advance detailed architectural planning and bid specification work.

Why it matters: The phase-3 decision advances stadium and fieldhouse plans that board members said will address current athletic and community needs and relieve pressure on existing indoor spaces. The administration presented a total project estimate ranging from about $19.5 million to $22.5 million depending on square footage and selected options.

Board discussion and concerns: Dr. McCardell and others asked for more detail about the multipurpose room’s intended uses, frequency of use and whether a dedicated space for the rifle team could avoid conflicts with team film sessions and booster activities. Mr. Haltenbach (project partner) described the multipurpose room as a consolidation to serve daily needs for teams, booster clubs and community rentals; he said a larger space allows for simultaneous activities with a divider. Board members also raised safety concerns about extensive glass in the weight-room design and asked the design team to address glazing and durability in upcoming plans.

Cost, phasing and next steps: The design partner noted a slight cost difference between options A and B tied to field-turf square footage; administration said phase 4 could incorporate additional second turf-field ideas raised by community members. The board authorized proceeding to detailed planning, engineering and preparation of bid documents; facilities staff will return with a refined schedule and cost details as planning advances.

Outcome: Motion to select option B carried on the board vote; the administration was directed to proceed with the next steps in design and bidding.