Architect: McKeesport High School "bones" sound; study outlines renovation options and timeline

Jackie Cowan of Brock Elective presented a high-level facility assessment for McKeesport High School and outlined a three-phase process: a condition survey (phase 1), stakeholder-driven program and goals (phase 2), and conceptual floor plans and costing (phase 3). Cowan said engineers have been on-site and that the study is still gathering data. "This is just a study," Cowan said, and the plans shown are conceptual and will be reviewed with administrators before being finalized.

Key condition findings Cowan discussed included broken window seals leading to fogging and air infiltration, HVAC equipment that is generally functioning but experiencing condensate-related leaks, and distribution plumbing that in places appears original to the building and has not been replaced for decades. Cowan said these items will be inventoried and costed in the final report. She told the board the structural "bones" of the building appear sound and said renovation is likely to be less costly than building new specialized spaces.

Board members pressed for specifics on areas of concern. One board member described the high school gym as "a disgrace" and urged renovation; Cowan said the study will include enlarged and reconfigured options for music, science and restroom spaces and will attach costs. Cowan said the team will bring window manufacturers on site, complete remaining department meetings (including food service and safety/security), develop conceptual layouts, and begin costing items. The architect said the final report is on track for the June 10 meeting and that the team will return monthly with status updates until then.

The presentation provided the board with a timeline and next steps; the study will return with detailed costs and stakeholder-reviewed plans before any recommendation for construction work.