Elevated Gymnasium at Grand Isle School | Architectural Projects
Meyer Engineers, Ltd., completed the design and construction administration of a new elevated gymnasium, band and classroom building at Grand Isle School. The building was designed with 8-inch precast concrete walls to withstand 150 miles per hour winds and harsh saltwater environment. The underside of the elevated concrete structure was to be at base flood elevation over 10 feet above grade putting the finish floor over 12 feet above grade. The building is approximately 21,200 square feet with a monumental stair, and bridge in either end of the breezeway that separates the educational functions from the gymnasium. The gymnasium included one basketball court, bleachers, performance platform with wheelchair lift, under platform storage area, concession stand, locker rooms, offices, public restrooms, lobby and accessible elevator. The elevator provided access from the parking lot to the main elevation as well as a third floor mechanical mezzanine.
The gym is connected to the existing Administration Building via a pedestrian crossing bridge. The concrete bridge is 86’ long with a metal roof and brick guard rail. The spacious band room includes a main orchestra space; two practice rooms, accessible restroom, and a storage room. The two classrooms are connected by a vestibule corridor to a shared accessible restroom.
Site improvements included subsurface drainage and parking lot under the building. New utilities were provided to the site which included a fire pump for the sprinkler system. The building is cooled with two large chiller systems. The project also included a back-up generator transfer switch.
The mechanical and electrical systems were tied into a Johnson’s Control System that is run by a computer program in the principal’s office. Individual rooms have automatic lighting controls and the ability to adjust the room temperature by a few degrees up or down. The exterior of the building is illuminated by different sources of light to provide a cost effective beautifully lit building at night for night games and ceremonies.
Substantial Completion Date: May 2011
Construction Cost: $8,750,000
