New High School > New Information/Updates > Fall 2007 Update

Construction in High Gear
The new high school project remains on budget and ahead of schedule through Phase Five of construction. Much work was done over the summer of 2007; the school building and the athletic facilities are “shaping up” in fulfillment of the design.

Inside the Building
The structural elements of the school building are nearly complete, with only the east end of the building still to be enclosed by brick. The building is ready for interior work throughout the coming winter.

Drywalling and finishing activities continue in the classroom wings and library. Student locker installation is nearly 85% complete. The installation of light fixtures and the light harvesting system (using sunlight levels to automatically brighten or dim classrooms) has begun. Above-ceiling mechanical and electrical systems are being installed. Ceramic wall tile installation has commenced in the main floor corridor. Casework has been delivered to the site for installation in classrooms and science laboratories.

Local Fire departments were very impressed by the design and construction of the new high school when they toured the building in late September. Emergency planning for the new school has already begun, a process that will be made a lot easier by the building’s advanced fire suppression systems and more controlled traffic flow.

The swimming pool shell has been poured and the installation of the plumbing and mechanical systems continues. The installation of plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and fire suppression systems continues in the gymnasium, cafeteria and auditorium.

Outside the Building
Lower Road was entirely reconstructed during the summer. Softened curves in the road, new curbing, wider lanes, and an expanded entrance make for safer travel to and from the school. The paving of site parking lots continues as does the installation of sidewalks.

A stadium appears! The installation of the grandstands and stadium lighting is nearly complete. The synthetic playing surface has been installed, as have the sub-layers of the synthetic running track. Goal posts stand ready for future field goals. Design work for the stadiums concession stands, team rooms and ticket booths continues.

The grading, top soiling and seeding of the natural surface softball and multi-purpose fields has begun in time for the autumn growing season. Additionally, the Board of School Directors has approved the installation of an environmentally-conscious recycled water system that will use treated water to irrigate the athletic fields. The savings in future water costs will pay for the system within four years. Construction of the tennis courts is nearly complete.

Phase Six
Phase Six of the project runs through the fall and winter into April of 2008. This phase will concentrate on the walls, flooring, and finishes within the building, as well as the further completion of the buildings mechanical, data, and communication systems.

In Memory of Mr. Frank Skepton
Mr. Frank Skepton, owner of Skepton Construction Inc. and the general contractor on the New Souderton Area High School Project, passed away suddenly at the end of the summer. We extend to his family, friends and workers our deepest sympathies. Mr. Skepton’s strong work ethic and commitment to quality school construction are a large reason for the project’s success to date. Work on the school has continued without disruption as he would have wanted. Thank you, Mr. Skepton.

Watch it From Your Own Computer
Learn more about the construction portion of the project, or check out the latest information and updated picture gallery.