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Design team presents renderings for new middle and K–3 schools; approvals, bids tied to PennDOT reviews
Summary
Architects and project managers updated the Chambersburg Area School Board on renderings, site work, geotechnical findings and a permitting schedule that targets site approvals by year‑end, bidding in late fall and construction beginning in 2027 to support a 2029 occupancy. The team also recommended against pursuing solar at this time based on ROI and land‑use concerns.
Designers for the Chambersburg Area School District presented updated plans and renderings for the new 4–6 intermediate school and the K–3 building and outlined a permitting and bidding schedule intended to keep the projects on track for a 2029 opening.
Project presenters said design development is nearly complete and that the site plan includes athletics (an eight‑lane track, grandstands and lighting), a three‑story classroom wing and a two‑story 'town square' commons. Architect Andy (RLPS) said the project remains within previously shared program square footage "within 1,500 square feet of where we shared before," and the team reiterated that stormwater work, an MPDS submittal and PennDOT reviews are on the critical path for permits.
On schedule and approvals, the team outlined land‑development and MPDS submittals in mid‑year, Act 34 booklet approval by the board and an Act 34 hearing in July or August. The presenters said they aim to complete drawings by October so the district could release bid packages in November and bring recommended awards back in January; contractors could mobilize in spring with the goal of occupancy in spring 2029 for the 2029–30 school year.
Designers described geotechnical findings showing pockets of shallow bedrock that could require rock removal contingencies and explained bidding approaches (classified excavation with unit pricing and an optional unclassified lump sum alternate). On the question of construction scope and cost, the team noted soft costs (furnishings, technology, permits) typically add roughly 15–18% to construction numbers for a project of this size.
Traffic and off‑site improvements were raised repeatedly. The team's traffic engineer recommended signalization at several intersections and certain turning‑lane work tied to local development; the presenters estimated a Green Township traffic impact fee of approximately $760,000 and described a credit mechanism if a required signal exceeds that amount. Project staff emphasized final responsibilities for off‑site work will be determined by PennDOT and municipal reviews.
The district also received a solar feasibility briefing. KCI presented two options (rooftop plus canopy and rooftop plus ground) and reported the cost‑efficient scenario showed idealized payback in roughly 10–15 years while the option prioritizing open space returned beyond 20 years; the study recommended against pursuing solar at this site now but advised designing roofs to accept future panels.
No bids or contracts were approved at the Committee of the Whole; board members asked follow‑up questions and staff said the administration will return with updated budgets and next steps as permitting evolves.
