California K–12 District Opens New Athletic Complex, Gym

The San Mateo Union High School District (SMUHSD) in San Mateo, Calif., recently announced the completion of two new athletics facilities: a new gymnasium at Burlingame High School, and a new athletic training complex at San Mateo High School, according to a news release. The district partnered with Quattrocchi Kwok Architects for both projects’ design, with BHM Construction for construction work at Burlingame, and with Lathrop Construction for work at San Mateo High School. Funding came from the Measure L General Obligation Bond that voters passed in 2020.

The new gymnasium facility at Burlingame High School measures 37,492 square feet, and it contains two gyms, locker rooms, a wrestling facility, physical education offices, main lobby, and storage and support spaces, the news release reports. The new gym replaces an older, outdated facility and was designed to accommodate increased student enrollment in student athletics and athletic events.

“The completion of these projects is a critical milestone for our District, as these new facilities directly address the growing participation in our athletics programs and provide essential modern, expanded spaces for both our students and the broader community,” said SMUHSD Associate Superintendent and Chief Business Officer Yancy Hawkins. “We are grateful to the voters whose support for Measure L made these vital enhancements possible.”

Meanwhile, the new Athletic Training Complex at San Mateo High School covers 20,085 square feet to meet the school’s demand for athletics space. Amenities include a gym with seating for 820 spectators, training and team rooms, restrooms, a classroom, and additional support spaces.

Both new facilities were designed with sustainability features like rooftop solar arrays, energy efficient mechanical systems, cool roof roofing systems, LED lighting systems, low flow plumbing fixtures, automatic lighting controls, and drought-tolerant landscaping, the news release reports.

“We are proud to have partnered with the San Mateo Union High School District to bring these two gymnasiums to life, creating dynamic spaces that will serve students and enhance the schools’ athletics programs for many years,” said QKA Principal John Dybczak. “Designing facilities that meet the evolving needs of students and communities is at the core of what we do.”

About the Author

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

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