Board hears schematic‑design update for Methacton High School renovation

Consultants working on the Methacton High School renovation told the board on Nov. 25 that the project has moved into the schematic‑design phase and that the team expects to return with visuals and cost updates early next year.

Devin of the Schrader Group said the board approved moving into schematic design at the October meeting and that the project team has been meeting regularly. He said the sketch‑plan submission was targeted for December, and the zoning application — originally planned for January — is now expected in March to allow time for township engineering comments. "We are hoping to have a sketch plan submission in December... and then, we did say zoning application in January that has since changed... to probably in March," Devin said.

Devin outlined the schedule ahead: schematic design work now through January, a schematic update with visuals in January, a final schematic presentation with cost updates in February and a target to move into design development in February. Design development would run through August, with construction documents and required public processes (including an Act 34 hearing) to follow. He said the project includes a classroom addition, new performing‑arts spaces and a pool, a redesigned bus loop, and site improvements on the west wing footprint.

The team said it will continue end‑user meetings (performing arts, pool group, administration, counseling and wellness staff and students) and will meet with the township, planning commission and supervisors during the process. No board action was required at the Nov. 25 meeting; the presentation was informational and the board was scheduled to receive additional visuals in January.