Oregon District Selects Builder for Multiple Renovation Projects

The David Douglas School District in Portland, Ore., recently selected Balfour Beatty company Howard S. Wright to deliver $15.7 million in renovations and repairs across multiple schools and facilities, according to a news release. The district also partnered with BBL Architects for the projects’ designs.

The projects are scheduled for West Powellhurst Elementary, Floyd Light Middle, and South Powellhurst. Project features include HVAC upgrades, fire alarm replacement, electrical and generator updates, a new security vestibule, and remodeling specialty areas. The contract marks Howard S. Wright’s first expansion into the K–12 education sector. Its previous experience includes higher education projects for the University of Oregon, as well as private and government work.

“We are excited to diversify Howard S. Wright’s project portfolio with the award to deliver K-12 renovations in the Portland area,” said Howard S. Wright senior vice president Ryan McGrew. “Our project team looks forward to leveraging its renovation expertise to provide essential upgrades to David Douglas District schools and enhance the learning environment for students and faculty.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2025 and finish in September 2025, the news release reports.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Back-to-School Playground Safety: 7 Common Hazards to Look for After Summer Break

    As summer break comes to an end, school administrators have plenty to prepare before students return. While classrooms, hallways and common areas often receive attention during all the back-to-school preparations, the playground should not be overlooked. Months of weather exposure, storms, and regular wear can leave behind hazards that may not be immediately noticeable.

  • UNH Marks Construction Milestone on Oceanic Exploration Facility

    The University of New Hampshire in Durham, N.H., recently celebrated a major construction milestone with a beam-signing ceremony for the new Center of Excellence for Operational Ocean and Great Lakes Mapping, according to a news release. The facility’s ultimate goal is to support research, training and technical assistance in ocean mapping.

  • University of Rochester to Break Ground on New Student Life Center

    The University of Rochester in Rochester, N.Y., recently began construction on a new Student Life building, according to a news release. The first floor will contain campus-wide gathering, program, and rehearsal space; the second floor will play home to the Greenbaum Center for Jewish Life.

  • Minnesota District Converts Middle School into Community Hub

    White Bear Lake Area Schools in White Bear Lake, Minn., recently announced the end of a major renovation project that converted a former middle school into a new centralized district and community hub, according to a news release.