Category: Public Safety
SCHRADERGROUP Attends the 2022 IACP Annual Conference and Exposition!
The SCHRADERGROUP team attended and exhibited at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Annual Conference and Exposition this year from October 15th to the 18th at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.
SG Principals Tom Forsberg and Harry Pettoni represented SCHRADERGROUP at the bustling conference. While there, the team attended educational sessions supporting the planning, design, and construction process of police facilities. Speakers presented information about the impact of technology on law enforcement agencies as wells as the future challenges police & law enforcement agencies may encounter. The SG team discovered new techniques of leveraging technology to enhance public safety in neighborhoods and schools.
The IACP is the world’s largest and most influential professional association for police leaders. With more than 32,000 members in over 170 countries, the IACP is a recognized leader in global policing, committed to advancing safer communities through thoughtful, progressive police leadership. Since 1893, the association has been serving communities worldwide by speaking out on behalf of law enforcement and advancing leadership and professionalism in policing worldwide.
The IACP Annual Conference is the largest and most important law enforcement event of the year, with more than 16,000 public safety professionals attending to learn new techniques, advance their knowledge and careers, and equip their department for ongoing success. The conference focuses on the three tenants of training, networking, and exposition hall education, with more than 175 workshops offered each year on a variety of topics important to the profession.
Learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s public safety and mission critical facility work here.
Learn more about IACP Annual Conference here.
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes 2023!
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) welcomes the new year by being grateful and thanking all of our clients, colleagues, community, friends, and family for their ongoing support. We would not be SCHRADERGROUP without all of you. In the spirit of welcoming the new year, we also would like to reflect on some of SG’s highlights in 2022.
- Franklin County, NC broke ground for its new Emergency 9-1-1 Communications Center (click to see the original post.) The new Emergency Communications Center will provide the County with the facility necessary to fulfill its Emergency Communications needs. The facility’s completion is anticipated for March 2023.
- Governor Mifflin School District (GMSD) broke ground for its new Athletic Community Center (click to see the original post.) SG is excited to start the construction of GMSD’s new Athletic Community Center which is slated to be completed in the summer of 2023. The Community Center will provide a central community anchor for the School District’s athletic programs and events while allowing the existing secondary schools more room for their current academic programs and students.
- Great Valley School District’s (GVSD) new 5/6 Center conducted its groundbreaking (click to see the original post.) SG was excited to celebrate the start of construction for GVSD’s newest educational facility which will accommodate 900 students in grades 5-6. The new 5/6 Center is anticipated to open in the fall of 2024.
- The Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) held its new Career and Advanced Technology Center’s ribbon cutting (click to see the original post.) What an impressive facility that will provide automotive technologies, healthcare technical training, and general technologies and building trade opportunities to boost the local community and workforce. You can read more about CCP’s new Career and Technology Center (click here.)
- North Penn School District’s (NPSD) Knapp Elementary school held its ribbon-cutting ceremony. This addition and renovations project transformed the 1950’s facility into a next-generation school. The central core of the school was reconfigured to pull the dining commons directly across from the main entrance lobby and the roof structure was raised to introduce natural light into the space through clerestory windows. The library/resource center was relocated adjacent to the dining commons with a folding partition that can open to a Large Group Instruction (LGI) area. Additions include a new classroom wing. Find out more about Knapp Elementary School (click here.)
- SG partnered with previous clients and consultants to bring a special panel to Pennsylvania’s Association of School Board Officials (PASBO) 67th Annual Conference (click to see the original post.) After the previous year’s virtual conference, the SG team was excited to exhibit and present in person at PASBO’s 67th Annual Conference. The SG team chaired a panel to speak on the topic of future school safety, security, HVAC, and virus mitigation.
- SG and Upper Merion Area School District’s (UMASD) Administration spoke about the new Upper Merion Area High School at the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) Southeastern Region’s Annual Conference (click to see the original post.) SG’s Managing Partner, David Schrader, and UMASD’s Superintendent, Dr. John Toleno, engaged in a session that used the new Upper Merion Area High School as a case study for how; design supports 21st Century Learning, reflects current business models, and provides opportunities throughout secondary grades. The case study also compared traditional post-industrial educational environments to current designs of flexible learning spaces. Check out more about the new high school (click here.)
- SG, Lavallee Brensinger Architects (LBA), and the CCP spoke about the new Career and Advanced Technology Center at SCUP’s Annual Mid-Atlantic Conference (click to see the original post.) SG, LBA, and CCP used the new Career and Advanced Technology Center in West Philadelphia as a case study to provide insight into why and how the investment and design of technical trade schools can transform the local community and environment.
- SG attended the A4LE Northeast Region’s Annual Conference and engaged in a speaking session focused on the School District of Springfield Township’s (SDST) new Enfield Elementary School (click to see the original post.) The session highlighted SDST and the local community in their collaboration to envision a school that is designed to be a community anchor and to promote critical thinking in grades K-2. Find out more about Enfield Elementary School (click here.)
- SG sponsored and attended North Carolina Sheriff’s Association’s (NCSA) Spring Conference (click to see the original post.) SG Principal Harry Pettoni attended and exhibited at NCSA’s Spring Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Conference brought many state Sheriffs and law enforcement agencies together to help provide them with new information and better services for their departments.
- SG attended the North Carolina Public Safety Communications Conference in Wilmington, North Carolina (click to see the original post.) The event was hosted by the North Carolina Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (NC APCO) and the North Carolina National Emergency Number Association (NC NENA.) SG attended to provide an exhibition of our expertise in Public Safety programming, planning, and design.
- SG attended the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARRS) Conference in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania (click to see the original post.) SG Associate Devin Bradbury and Project Manager Eric Weiss represented the firm at the Conference which included different opportunities to engage in as well as meeting some familiar and new faces. We look forward to attending more PARRS events in the future.
- SG attended Maryland’s 68th Annual ASBO Spring Conference in Ocean City, Maryland (click to see the original post.) SG Principals Bruce Bachtle, Tom Forsberg, and Harry Pettoni were at the annual conference to exhibit SG’s services and designs.
- SG attended the 2022 PASBO Facilities, Transportation, and Safety Conference in Lancaster. SG was represented at this annual conference by SG team members Danielle Hoffer, Charlotte Stoudt, and Tom Forsberg.
- SG attended the 2022 PASA/PSBA School Leadership Conference in the Poconos. SG was excited to return to this annual conference that included more than 40 educational sessions and learning labs on relevant public-school topics.
- SG attended A4LE LearningSCAPES in San Antonio, Texas (click to see the original post.) It was an exciting event with SG Managing Partner, David Schrader, receiving the A4LE Lifetime Achievement award.
- SG attended the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Annual Conference and Exposition in Dallas, Texas. SG Principals Tom Forsberg and Harry Pettoni represented SG at this bustling conference committed to advancing safer communities through thoughtful, progressive police leadership.
- SG attended the 36th Annual Delaware Valley Association of School Board Officials (DVASBO) Trade Show in Oaks, PA. Managing Partner David Schrader was joined by Principal Harry Pettoni and Associate Danielle Hoffer at the event that assists in DVASBO’s mission of developing and supporting leaders in school business operations for the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery.
- SG attended the 2022 EDspaces Convention in Portland, Oregon. In addition to attending the convention that explored how innovation transforms learning spaces, the SG team, with UMASD Administration presented a session on “Student-Focused Design to Inspire Personal Achievement” by using the new Upper Merion Area High School as a case study.
- Hatboro-Horsham School District’s (HHSD) new Crooked Billet Elementary School was recognized as an Outstanding Project in Learning by Design’s Spring issue (click to see the original post.) SG is excited to have worked with HHSD on the design of a wonderful learning facility. The new school promotes its community’s and young students’ needs while highlighting the historical heritage of Crooked Billet designed within the center of the school. Learn more about the project (click here.)
- UMASD’s new Upper Merion Area High School received an Outstanding Project award in Learning by Design’s Fall issue (click to see the original post.) The new High School’s design was the result of UMASD’s vision, its community’s collaboration, and SG’s commitment to academic design—a recognition that was appropriately deserved.
- UMASD’s new Upper Merion Area High School also received an Outstanding Project award in American School & University’s Fall 2022 Architectural Portfolio issue. The new facility provides career and higher education level spaces for the students of UMASD to engage in the next-generation learning activities of “research, develop, and present!”
- SG’s ongoing Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC) project for PennDOT District 6.0 received a transportation industry award during the March of Dimes annual Transportation Luncheon. The RTMC received the “Alternative Delivery Project of the Year” award with Project Manager Courtney Anspach in attendance.
- SCHRADERGROUP Managing Partner David Schrader was awarded the Association for Learning Environments’ (A4LE) Lifetime Achievement Award this year. This award is the most distinguished professional award bestowed to an A4LE member and honors an individual who has distinguished him or herself by making significant lasting contributions to the educational facility planning industry throughout their career. Congratulations David!
- SCHRADERGROUP was selected by the Pennsylvania American Institute of Architects (PA AIA) to receive the 2022 AIA Pennsylvania EPiC Firm Recognition. SG received this recognition for demonstrating a commitment to the development of Pennsylvania’s emerging professionals.
- SG Principal Harry Pettoni was named President of A4LE’s Chesapeake Bay/Delaware Valley Chapter in 2022 (click to see the original post.) As Chapter President, Harry will serve a three-year term to lead the Chapter in its endeavors to create Next Generation Learning Environments.
- Tyler Corbley registered as a new Architect in the state of Pennsylvania (click to see the original post.) SG celebrated Tyler’s accomplishments and growth since his summer internship at SG and now his registration as a Pennsylvanian Architect. We look forward to his continuing future contributions to SG and architecture.
- SG welcomed a new Project Architect, Trevor Mitchell (click to see the original post.) Trevor is Jefferson University graduate with over six years of experience in architecture. He has been contributing support and design detail to SG and its client’s projects. Welcome Trevor to the SG family!
- SG welcomed a new Interior Designer and Project Manager, Derek Perini (click to see the original post.) Derek brings over 24 years of interior design experience in senior living, multifamily residences, hospitality, and higher education design. We are excited to have Derek contribute and expand our interior design studio and market.
- Former Intern Dan Pawluczyk returned to SG as a full-time Architectural Designer (click to see the original post.) Dan was a recent Pennsylvania State University graduate and worked a summer internship at SG in 2021. He returned to continue his commitment to architecture, SCHRADERGROUP, and our projects and clients.
- Bruce Bachtle, SG Partner, announced his retirement in 2022 (click to see the original post.) Bruce has dedicated much to SG and its team since 2005—a mentor and friend to many including clients, industry partners, communities, and families. We all thank you, Bruce!
- SG attended Pennsylvania State University’s (PSU) Annual Stuckeman School Career Day (click to see the original post.) SG team members and PSU Alumni David Schrader, Paige Faria, and Jillian Kreglow attended PSU’s annual Career Day and met with many bright aspiring architecture students.
- SG sponsored and attended the 22nd Annual Montgomery County Intermediate Unit Education Foundation’s (MCIUEF) Golf Outing (click to see the original post.) As a proud sponsor, SG attended this event that raised funds to enhance and support educational opportunities for students in the County. We look forward to next year!
- SG sponsored and attended the Great Valley School District Educational Foundation’s Harlem Wizard Event. SG was proud to be a “Slam Dunk” sponsor at this fun event that raised funds for the schools in the district.
- SG sponsored and attended CCP’s Annual Black and Gold Gala (click to see the original post.) CCP’s Black and Gold Gala is a premier charity event that celebrates and recognizes outstanding individuals and services that encourages community growth. SG is proud to have sponsored and been a part of CCP’s mission to build a better and brighter future for Philadelphia.
- SG Principals and Associates, Bruce Bachtle, Tom Forsberg, Dan D’Amico, and Devin Bradbury attended the Delaware Valley Association of School Business Officials’ (DVASBO) 32nd Annual Golf Outing (click to see the original post.) SG is proud to have attended and helped raise money for scholarships for students in the Delaware Valley area.
- SG sponsored and attended Council Rock Education Foundation’s 3rd Annual Golf Classic outing (click to see the original post.) Project Architects Eric Weiss, Mark Adamiak, and Chris Farmer represented SG and our sponsorship to Council Rock Education Foundation. As always, we look forward to next year’s golf outing.
- SG Managing Partner David Schrader attended and spoke at the GAF Marketing Summit in Philadelphia, PA. David participated in the “Transforming our Future” Panel Discussion which was regarded as a highlight of the summit.
- SG sponsored and attended the North Penn Education Foundation’s 21st Annual Golf Classic. SCHRADERGROUP team members Devin Bradbury and Eric Weiss represented SG and our sponsorship to the Foundation. The outing helped raise charitable funds for the foundation while participants enjoyed a day on the course.
WRAPPING UP 2022 + WELCOMING 2023!
These notes represent only a few of the highlights for SCHRADERGROUP in 2022. Many more are not covered herein. Some of those successes included; the progress of both current and new projects throughout the year, SG’s personal family growth and accomplishments, community involvement, and much more.
Again, SCHRADERGROUP gives thanks for all of the support and the opportunities that were provided to us this past year from all of you—our clients, industry partners, consultants, friends, and family. We look forward to contributing more to all of your communities and ours in the next year.
Happy New Year,
From all of us at SCHRADERGROUP.
SCHRADERGROUP Attends North Carolina Public Safety Communications Conference
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) attended and exhibited at the North Carolina Public Safety Communications Conference from May 1st to the 4th at the Wilmington Convention Center in Wilmington, NC. The conference was hosted by the North Carolina Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (NC APCO) and the North Carolina National Emergency Number Association (NC NENA).
The NC Public Safety Communications Conference is held annually to focus on providing educational, development, and networking opportunities for public safety communications professionals and 9-1-1 Telecommunicators. This is the first time in ten years that the conference was held in Wilmington, North Carolina, and the first time the conference was held in person (instead of virtually) in the last two years.
SG Principal Harry Pettoni joined over 300 attendees at the conference that included educational sessions on the latest public safety topics, technologies, and services as well as certifications and training for professional development. SG was happy to exhibit at this great event that allows attendees to return to their agencies with new ways to inspire and inform their peers and communities.
The North Carolina Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (NC APCO) is a member driven association of communications professionals that provides leadership and opportunities, influences public safety communications decisions for government and industries, promotes professional development, and fosters the development and use of technology for the benefit of the public and responders. NC APCO provides members with training opportunities, access to publications, and advocacy at the state and national level on topics important to the public safety communication professional.
The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) works with 9-1-1 professionals nationwide, public policy leaders, emergency services and telecommunications industry partners, like-minded public safety associations, and other stakeholder groups to develop and carry out critical programs and initiatives, to facilitate the creation of an IP-based Next Generation 9-1-1 system, and to establish industry leading standards, training, and certifications. NENA is on the forefront of all emergency communications issues and the association serves its members and the greater public safety community as the only professional organization solely focused on 9-1-1 policy, technology, operations, and education issues. With more than 16,000 members in 52 chapters across the United States and around the globe, NENA promotes the implementation and awareness of 9-1-1, as well as international three-digit emergency communications systems.
Learn more about the North Carolina Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (NC APCO) here.
Learn more about the North Carolina National Emergency Number Association (NC NENA) here.
Learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s work in Public Safety here.
SCHRADERGROUP Attends North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association Spring Conference
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) attended and exhibited at the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association (NCSA) Spring Conference from April 23rd to the 25th in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The NCSA is a state-wide organization made up of the state’s 100 sheriffs. The association works to strengthen the professional law enforcement services provided to the people of North Carolina.
SG Principal Harry Pettoni operated the SG booth throughout the event. This conference hosted training sessions, special speakers, and exhibitions that dealt with issues in law enforcement and the community. Events like these help sheriffs across the state figure out how to better serve their communities and to share techniques and strategies with their local counterparts.
SG was pleased to be a Corporate Partner for this event. We are dedicated to regularly attending public safety and law enforcement events as they provide new information and processes for the design of safe and efficient public safety facilities.
Learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s work in Public Safety here.
Learn more about the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association here.
Franklin County, NC Breaks Ground on New E911 Communications Center
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) attended the official ceremonial groundbreaking for the new 911 Primary Public Safety Answering Point Facility on Wednesday, April 6th, 2022, in Louisburg, North Carolina. Principal Harry Pettoni represented SG at the event that was attended by the County Commissioners, County Manager, NC911 Board Executive Director, and County 911 Director.
The 911 Primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) Facility will consist of a 6,000 SF communications center on a four-acre site adjacent to the existing Franklin County Sheriff’s facility, communication towers, and storage facilities. Sitework will include new stormwater system, sanitary sewer system, water lines, and electrical service to the building. New sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots will also be provided.
The non-hardened portion of the building will be structural steel framed on steel deck while the floor will consist of slab on grade concrete with conventional concrete spread footings. The hardened portion of the building will consist of a reinforced concrete masonry wall system. The roof structure will consist of structural steel framed with concrete slab on composite steel deck with PVC roofing systems. The exterior façade will be a mixture of brick, pre-cast concrete, cementitious panels, aluminum windows, storefront, and curtainwall systems.
This project is funded through a grant funding award from the North Carolina 911 Board. SG provided the programming, schematic design, design development, construction administration, and permitting documents for this new facility.
The facility is scheduled to open in December 2022.
If you would like to learn more about Franklin County, click here.
To learn more about SG’s work in the Public Safety Sector, please click here.
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes the New Year!
2021 was a great year for SCHRADERGROUP. Our team grew both in number and in professional qualifications, we reconnected with clients and colleagues at conferences and events, our projects were featured in multiple publications, we participated in sponsorships and mentorships, and, most importantly, we inspired our communities with responsive, innovative, and sustainable architecture created through client-driven, collaborative practice.
SCHRADERGROUP would like to thank you all for the support and opportunities that have been afforded to us in 2021. We look forward to our continued relationships and the exciting projects that are planned for 2022.
See below for a recap of some of SG’s most memorable milestones from the past year!
We had yet another exciting year of projects that were either completed or made great progress in 2021.
At the Start of the Year
Additions and renovations to Quakertown Community School District’s Neidig Elementary School completely transformed this elementary school to support project-based learning.
In the Spring
SCHRADERGROUP repurposed four pools and eight libraries at Hazleton Area School District’s K-8 schools to generate additional educational classroom space to accommodate growing enrollments.
Council Rock School District’s newly renovated Rolling Hills Elementary School achieved LEED Gold Certification and received an ACE Grant.
We made progress during spring construction (March, April, May) on a number of projects, including Upper Merion Area School District’s new Upper Merion Area High School, the sitework for Chatham County, North Carolina’s new Emergency Operations Center, the additions and renovations to the School District of Philadelphia’s Anne Frank Elementary School, the additions and renovations to North Penn School District’s Knapp Elementary School, and the construction of PennDOT District 6-0’s new Regional Traffic Management Center, among others.
During the Summer
We celebrated the School District of Springfield Township’s new Early Learning Center’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
We showcased the newly completed Springfield School District’s new High School.
Last summer’s construction progress (part 1, part 2) included updates for the additions and renovations to North Penn School District’s Knapp Elementary School, the demolition and construction of Springfield School District’s Athletic Fields, the construction of PennDOT District 6-0’s new Regional Traffic Management Center, the construction of Upper Merion Area School District’s new Upper Merion Area High School, the additions and renovations to the School District of Philadelphia’s Anne Frank Elementary School and Paul Dunbar School, the construction of the Community College of Philadelphia’s new Career and Advanced Technology Center, the renovations to Bristol Township School District’s Benjamin Franklin Middle School, and the renovations to Council Rock School District’s Hillcrest Elementary School and Sol Feinstone Elementary School.
In the Fall
East Pennsboro Area School District held their ribbon cutting ceremony for their new Administration Center.
SCHRADERGROUP is always committed to becoming fully involved with the communities in which we work and this past year was no different. See below for some of the ways we strived to inspire our communities.
We hosted design workshops for Hatboro-Horsham School District’s new Keith Valley Middle School project and for Great Valley School District’s new 5/6 Grade Center project. SG also hosted a planning workshop for Rose Tree Media School District’s new Elementary School project. It was great to be back in person for our consensus-based planning process for these projects as it is always a great exercise in collaborating with the Community and the School District.
The SCHRADERGROUP team also participated in multiple events that were not project related. Our team’s dedication to mentoring the next generation of designers and professionals include our participation in mentoring programs and Penn State University’s Architectural Alumni Group Seminars.
Although some of our favorite conferences were cancelled or held virtually in 2021, we were happy to see so many of you both virtually and in-person at some of these great annual events. We were excited to have attended the PSU Virtual Career Fair, PASBO’s Virtual Conference, the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association Meeting, A4LE LearningSCAPES Conference in Colorado, Design Philly’s Kick-Off Meeting in Philadelphia at Cherry Street Pier, PASBO’s Facilities and Transportation Safety Conference in Lancaster, PA, and the DVASBO Trade Show in Oaks, PA.
2021 was a year filled with awards and recognitions for SCHRADERGROUP and for some of our projects. A few of the accolades we received included:
SCHRADERGROUP making the Building Design + Construction Magazine’s 2020 Giants 400 report, as well as ranking in Architectural Record’s Top 300 Architecture Firms of 2020.
The School District of Springfield Township’s Enfield K-2 Early Learning Center earned quite a bit of recognition this year, with Learning by Design’s Spring 2021 Issue’s Outstanding Project, American School & University’s 2021 Educational Interiors Showcase’s Outstanding Design, Learning by Design’s Fall 2021 Issue’s Outstanding Project, and American School & University’s 2021 Architectural Portfolio’s Outstanding Project.
Additionally, we celebrated some great milestones for the impressive individuals on our team—their growth is SCHRADERGROUP’s growth, and we couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments both for themselves and for the firm!
This included welcoming Jillian Kreglow as our newest Architectural Designer and Brianna Smith as our new Office Administrator over the summer and welcoming Hugo Li as our newest Structural Engineer just last month.
Congratulations to our senior Architectural Designers Jeremy Ross and Paige Geldrich, for passing their exams and for becoming registered architects this summer. Congratulations are in order for senior Architectural Designer Chris Farmer as well, who recently passed his WELL AP exam in addition to becoming a registered architect.
We would also like to thank our summer interns, Leah Balderson and Dan Pawluczyk, for their contributions to the firm over the summer and we are excited to see their academic and professional growth in the future!
SG leadership had a great year as well. SG Principal Harry Pettoni recently became the President of A4LE’s Chesapeake Bay/Delaware Valley Chapter. Also, SG Founder and Managing Partner David Schrader was inducted into the College of Fellows for the American Institute of Architects at the Lincoln Center in Washington D.C. in November. Congratulations David and Harry!
And last but not least, we are proud to recognize and celebrate the individuals who devoted so much of their time and expertise directly to the firm, congratulations to Regina Jean-Claude, Danielle V. Hoffer, Dan D’Amico, and Devin Bradbury on becoming SCHRADERGROUP Associates!
The SCHRADERGROUP team remains socially active. Whether we are attending happy hours, work parties, fundraisers, or just simply going out to lunch, the team always has a great time together. But who can forget about golf as the ultimate social activity? It was great to return to the courses in 2021, whether for a charity game, a fundraiser, or just to play with friends and members of the SCHRADERGROUP family.
The team participated in some fantastic events including Council Rock Education Foundation’s 2nd Annual Golf Classic, Springfield Area Educational Foundation’s Annual Golf Tournament, Delaware Valley Association of School Business Officials’ Annual Golf Outing, Montgomery County Intermediate Unit Education Foundation’s 21st Annual Golf Classic, North Penn School District’s Educational Foundation’s 20th Golf Classic, and the SCHRADERGROUP Team’s Inaugural Golf Outing.
Welcoming 2022
We cannot wait for what may come in the new year! While SCHRADERGROUP has a number of exceptional projects in design, we also have many projects that will be approaching completion and we are eagerly anticipating more ribbon cutting ceremonies. We are very happily looking forward to another year of growth for our team members and for the firm as a whole. SCHRADERGROUP anticipates being able to participate in more conferences and attending more fundraisers where we can connect with our clients and collaborators. We will continue to inspire and mentor our younger generations, and to simply continue the wonderful relationships we have built over the years with all of you–our partners, our supporters, our families, and our friends.
We celebrate with all of you the accomplishments of the previous year and the optimism of the new one we are entering.
Cheers and have a safe, happy, and healthy new year.
From all of us at SCHRADERGROUP.
SCHRADERGROUP Construction Progress – Summer 2021, Part 2
Now that summer has come to an end, a few SG projects are wrapping up while construction continues on many others. A few of the construction projects currently underway include the additions and renovations to Knapp Elementary School for the North Penn School District, the demolition of the existing Springfield High School and construction of new athletic facilities for the new high school, the new PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center, the new Upper Merion Area High School, additions and renovations to two School District of Philadelphia Schools, Anne Frank Elementary School and Benjamin Franklin Middle School, the new Career and Advanced Technology Center for the Community College of Philadelphia, and additions and renovations to two Council Rock School District Schools, Hilcrest Elementary School and Sol Feinstone Elementary School, among others.
North Penn School District – Knapp Elementary School, Additions and Renovations
In Lansdale, PA, a phased plan for additions and renovations to Knapp Elementary School is underway. This project has a complex phasing schedule in place so that classes can remain uninterrupted as the school year begins.
The first phases of the project included classroom renovations, many of which are complete. The remaining classroom renovations are underway at various stages.
The renovations to the core of the building, including the new entry, cafeteria, and LGI are ongoing. Steel and glulam beams are fully installed in all of these spaces. An important milestone, the completion of the main entrance, is fast approaching. This addition will act as the connector for the two parts of the school while the renovations to the core are underway. The students will be using the gymnasium as a temporary cafeteria this fall.
Springfield School District – Springfield High School, Existing High School Demolition, Visitor Side Bleacher, and Athletic Fields
In Springfield, PA, demolition work is speeding up. The existing Springfield High School is substantially demolished, the stone retaining wall construction is ongoing, and lot paving has begun for parking. After the completion of the existing high school’s demolition, work will begin on new athletic fields, turf fields, and tennis courts where the original school stood.
The visitor side bleacher construction is progressing and is expected to be completed in time for the first home football game at the new high school and stadium.
Department of General Services – PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC)
In King of Prussia, PA, concrete slab placement at the new Regional Traffic Management Center has been completed on each floor. Waterproofing of the concrete footings is complete, the underground plumbing has been installed, and the steel column baseplates are in place.
The site retaining wall is complete, as is the majority of steel and decking. CMU installation in ongoing and interior metal stud framing has begun.
Upper Merion Area School District – New Upper Merion Area High School
Moving on down the road in King of Prussia, construction of the new Upper Merion Area High School continues. Structural steel framing for the major spaces is ongoing while the exterior envelope starts to give the building its form. Masons have been busy with brick work and CMU walls.
As concrete slabs are completed throughout the facility, MEP rough-in work continues closely behind. Activity on site recently picked up as carpenters started on the interior partitions.
Now that the underground tunnel is complete, the gym and pool areas are getting footings and foundations started.
School District of Philadelphia – Anne Frank Elementary School, Additions and Renovation
In Philadelphia, construction has moved quickly at Anne Frank Elementary School, with the addition complete in time for the new school year.
Community College of Philadelphia – New Career and Advanced Technology Center
Staying with construction projects in Philadelphia, the new Career and Advanced Technology Center (CATC) for the Community College of Philadelphia is progressing nicely. All building trades have been working diligently on both the exterior and interior of the building, with the next major milestone being the completion of the building enclosure in the next few weeks.
The new CATC will offer excellent views of the Philadelphia Skyline. The project is on track for a February 2022 completion.
Bristol Township School District – Benjamin Franklin Middle School, Additions and Renovations
North of Philadelphia, demolition work at Benjamin Franklin Middle School is complete and interior framing and stud work has started.
Additionally, site work for the new addition is in progress, with concrete footings now installed.
Council Rock School District – Hillcrest Elementary Schools, Additions and Renovations
Heading north towards Council Rock School District, SG has wrapped up interior demolition at the Hillcrest Elementary School, with the kitchen, administration, toilets and library areas completely demolished. Rough in has started throughout for all trades.
During construction, Hillcrest Elementary School students will be temporarily moved to a vacant CRSD school for the upcoming school year. The project is moving ahead quickly with E&S controls and fencing already in place.
Council Rock School District – Sol Feinstone Elementary Schools, Additions and Renovations
Staying in Council Rock School District, SG is working on phased renovations for another elementary school, Sol Feinstone Elementary School. Unlike Hillcrest, which will have students attending classes at a nearby vacant elementary school, Sol Feinstone will be 100% occupied throughout construction. This will result in the construction of temporary classrooms and a temporary egress stair that contains a pathway for students to safely traverse while the addition is underway.
The summer phases for this project are currently under construction, and interior and exterior demolition has recently started. E&S controls are in place and excavation for the new addition is currently underway. Pier footings and foundations at the new classroom addition are ongoing as well.
It is always exciting to watch our design work become reality! We would like to thank our clients, consultants, contractors, and all other team members for your dedication and support of the on-going efforts for these projects!
Learn more about these and other exciting SCHRADERGROUP projects here!
SCHRADERGROUP Construction Progress – Summer 2021
As we move into the middle of summer, many of our construction projects are now really starting to take shape. A few of the construction projects underway include the new Upper Merion Area High School, additions and renovations to Anne Frank Elementary School for the School District of Philadelphia, the new Career and Advanced Technology Center for the Community College of Philadelphia, the masonry restoration of the Paul L. Dunbar School in Philadelphia, the demolition of the existing Springfield High School, and the PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center, among others.
Upper Merion Area School District – Upper Merion Area High School, New Facility
Construction on the new Upper Merion Area High School continues into the heat of the summer. Infrastructure is being installed and is on pace for a September 2022 completion, just in time for Upper Merion Area School District high school students to start their new school year. Upon completion of and move into the new facility, demolition of the existing facility will begin. Once that demolition is complete, new playing fields will be constructed in its place.
This month, large Glulam Beams continue to be erected in the common areas. In the theater wing, the steel is in place for the stage as the auditorium takes shape.
School District of Philadelphia – Anne Frank Elementary School, Additions and Renovations
Work on the Anne Frank Elementary School continues in Northeast Philadelphia. Metal panels have been installed on 75% of the new construction areas while the glass and glazing installation is 50% complete.
Acoustic ceiling tile and vinyl composite tile installation continues while the walls are being painted. Ceramic tile flooring has started in the toilet rooms as well. A new feature this month are the railings being installed in the new stairways.
Community College of Philadelphia – Career and Advanced Technology Center, New Facility
The Community College of Philadelphia’s new Career and Advanced Technology Center (CATC) is progressing in West Philadelphia. Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing rough-ins continue at the interior wall and ceiling level and fire protection systems will follow.
Masonry work continues as well as exterior and interior metal framing. The building enclosure systems are expected to be completed by end of summer or early fall.
Recently, the on-grade concrete slabs were completed on the first floor. This project is scheduled for a February 2022 completion.
School District of Philadelphia – Paul L. Dunbar School, Restoration
Another School District of Philadelphia school project that is wrapping up is the restoration to the Paul L. Dunbar School. The outdated building exterior was in poor shape, with deteriorated masonry around the parapet of the building.
The restoration includes the installation of galvanized steel inlets to replace the rusted ungalvanized ones, the rebuilding of masonry, and the repointing of mortar joints. The project is a restoration of a beautiful WPA funded school. Substantial completion is expected by end of summer.
Springfield School District – Springfield High School, Existing High School Demolition and Visitor Side Bleacher Construction
In Springfield, PA, the new Springfield High School has just been completed. Demolition of the existing High School has begun and is on schedule for completion at the end of the summer.
The Visitor Side Bleacher building footing and foundations have recently been completed. Next up are the masonry walls and door frames as well as site work grading for the athletic fields and tennis courts.
Department of General Services – PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC) and Parking Structure, New Facilities
The new PennDOT Regional Traffic Management Center in King of Prussia is progressing nicely, with the continued forming of concrete footings and foundation walls. SG serves as the design component of the Heim Construction Design-Build team for this project. At the accompanying parking garage, work has been completed.
It is always exciting to watch our design work become reality! We would like to thank our clients, consultants, contractors, and all other team members for your dedication and support of the on-going efforts for these projects!
Learn more about these and other exciting SCHRADERGROUP projects here!
SCHRADERGROUP Construction Progress – May 2021
As summer quickly approaches, construction work continues to accelerate on SCHRADERGROUP (SG) projects! The team has been hard at work with construction administration for a variety of projects, with some rapidly approaching final completion. A few of our construction projects underway include a new Emergency Operations Center in North Carolina, additions and renovations to the School District of Philadelphia’s Anne Frank Elementary School, the Community College of Philadelphia’s new Career and Advanced Technology Center, the new Upper Merion Area High School, and the new PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center and Parking Structure, among others. A brief description of a few projects follow.
Chatham County, North Carolina – Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
School District of Philadelphia – Anne Frank Elementary School
In Philadelphia, the additions and renovations to Anne Frank Elementary School are quickly progressing. The exterior brick work is now complete and the installation of windows and ceramic tile begins. Inside, the painting is still in progress while the acoustic ceiling tile grid installation begins.
Community College of Philadelphia – Career and Advanced Technology Center
In West Philadelphia, the steel framing is complete at the new Career and Advanced Technology Center for the Community College of Philadelphia and the crane has been removed. MEP rough ins above grade have started in addition to the Concrete Masonry Unit walls. This project is scheduled for substantial completion by February 2022.
Upper Merion Area School District – Upper Merion Area High School
In King of Prussia, foundation work continues in the performing arts and gym/pool area of the new high school. In the classroom wing, concrete slabs have been poured. Out front, the curbs and asphalt have been installed in the parking lot. The most exciting update this month is that the site contractor is preparing to connect the site’s existing stream to the renovated stream area, which will be located near an outdoor amphitheater and teaching area to provide the students with science-based learning activities directly related to their campus.
Department of General Services – PennDOT District 6.0 Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC) and Parking Structure
Another SG project in King of Prussia, the new RTMC facility’s foundation is progressing nicely. Heim Construction continues to advance the concrete footings and foundation walls. This week, waterproofing of the concrete footings began as well.
The new adjacent parking structure is swiftly approaching completion. Installation of metal panel and soffit systems at the Penthouse are underway. The glazing, batten installation, metal louvre, site sign foundation, parking striping, and asphalt paving are all complete. Additionally, electric charging stations have been installed.
As the weather improves and work continues, it is exciting to watch these projects come to fruition. We would like to thank all of our clients, consultants, contractors, and supporters for your dedication and support!
Learn more about these and other exciting SCHRADERGROUP projects here!
SCHRADERGROUP Attends the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association Spring Meeting
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) recently attended the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association (NCSA) 2021 Spring Meeting from April 23rd to the 26th in New Bern, North Carolina. The NCSA is made up of the state’s 100 sheriffs and the association works to strengthen the professional law enforcement services their offices provide to the people of North Carolina.
SG Principal Harry Pettoni operated the SG booth throughout the event that hosted training sessions, special speakers, and exhibitions that dealt with issues in law enforcement and the community. Events like these help sheriffs across the state figure out how to better serve their communities and to share techniques and strategies with their local counterparts.
SG is proud to attend an event dedicated to the safety of the people of North Carolina. We had the pleasure to meet some new faces, connect with existing clients, and discuss current facility needs for NC Sheriffs.
SG is dedicated to attending as many public safety and law enforcement events as possible, as it provides crucial information and strategies in the design and construction of public safety facilities. Attending these events ensures we maintain our knowledge base in order to continue providing dynamic designs that are survivable and redundant.
Learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s work in Public Safety here.
Learn more about the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association here.
