Architects present prioritized plan for Wallingford‑Swarthmore high‑school renovation, emphasize ‘safe, warm and dry’ work first

Architects working with the Wallingford‑Swarthmore School District delivered a conceptual update on March 17 that frames the high‑school renovation around a triage of needs: making buildings safe, warm and dry; addressing major mechanical systems; and correcting accessibility issues.

KCBA/CHA representatives told the facilities committee that community listening sessions and staff input informed a priority list that begins with roof replacements, boilers and HVAC upgrades and removing aging modular classrooms. The consultants showed a three‑story concept that would consolidate science labs, add instructional and administrative space at the main entrance, and create additional athletics capacity via an auxiliary gym and a reconfigured parking/bus loop.

Consultants emphasized the use of bidding alternates so the district can document desirable work items and decide at bid time whether to add them depending on cost and budget. That approach, they said, preserves a core, bid‑ready scope while allowing higher‑priority additions (for example, an auxiliary gym or parking expansion) to be included if bids return favorably.

Board members broadly supported the priorities but asked for cost detail on alternates, including parking and auxiliary athletics space. Several board members also said they would prioritize science labs, life skills and improved arts spaces if budget allowed. Consultants noted the pool is perceived as important by community members and that modest investment could restore it to full functionality.

Next steps: architects will refine scope and present budgets and schedules at the April meeting, with a goal of preparing a bid‑ready package for later phases of decision and potential voter action.