![audience members look at a presentation that's given by an architect at a podium]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1768396088/pelhamschoolsorg/okfdpfgvbq2i9ujjv6yx/PXL_20251217_230943334.jpg","width":2200}])
Siwanoy families and neighbors joined members of the district’s architecture and construction management teams for an update on the implementation of the 2026 capital improvement bond.
Some key updates/information are as follows:
Colonial & Prospect Hill Renovations
- Design development of the Colonial and Prospect Hill renovations are approximately 60% complete.
- Heating systems and air conditioning systems have been selected. These systems will be converted from steam to hot water to improve efficiency and control.
- The Prospect Hill roof will be replaced in-kind with slate. Alternatives, including faux slate and metal were explored.
- Work at Colonial and Prospect Hill is expected to be completed during summer 2026 and summer 2027, pending State Education Department approval and successful bidding process.
Siwanoy Expansion, Renovation & ADA Upgrades
Plans for the Siwanoy School expansion have been adjusted based on feedback from the Bond Steering Committee, community and building stakeholders as well as the Site Plan Advisory Committee. Key changes include:
- Substantially increasing the setback from the addition to the adjacent property line
- Adjusting the layout to make the new wing feel smaller from the street level view
- Slight changes to the expansion that will allow the current kitchen area to be returned as storage
- Improvements to the location of the elevators that will be less disruptive and still allow former regular classrooms to become small group instructional space
- Ensuring there is a means for pedestrians to walk through the property on the exterior of the building
- Updating plans for the playground to maximize useable space for students
Overall, the architecture of the building is being designed to keep with the historic aesthetic of Siwanoy School while adding much needed classrooms, small group instruction space, a cafeteria under the existing gym and bringing the school into ADA compliance.
Preparations are underway with regard to site logistics during construction. Careful attention is being paid to project staging, material and equipment storage, safety protocols and student recess. In an effort to limit the amount of onsite construction and disruption to the neighborhood, the construction team is researching the feasibility of modular construction - which would involve constructing key components of the addition offsite and then installing them on the property. Important factors include the cost, quality and logistics of this type of construction, which will all be considered before a final decision is made.
The Siwanoy construction is planned to begin in summer 2027.
Overall, the schedule of construction is being planned to limit disruption to the schools and community and align with projected drops in debt service, limiting the impact on taxpayers. More information about the planned renovations at PMHS will be forthcoming with that project scheduled to begin in 2028.
