The Sewanhaka Central High School District selected Brentwood-based Park East Construction as its bond construction management firm last week. The group will oversee the $86.6 million in improvements coming to the district. Park East will analyze school architect Wiedersum Associates’ plans before applying for New York State Education Department approval.
“They are going to makes sure the [contractors that awarded] do the work right,” District Superintendent Dr. Ralph Ferrie said. “They’re going to make sure [the engineer’s] drawings are tight before they are sent up to New York State. [Park East] report directly to the architect and the board of education to make sure what we say we’re going to do is done well.”
The district received request for proposals (RFPs) from numerous companies after the bond passage, according to Fowler. Sewanhaka received additional bids over the summer and school board reps chose three firms, which presented to the full board of education on Sept. 2.
Park East will be paid $1.54 million for the work after being vetted by the board of education. The two other failed request for proposals are unknown as of press time.
“The board did a really good job vetting out construction management firms and preparing an appropriate recommendation,” Ferrie said. “They were responsive to the community to make sure they awarded to the low bidder and a reputable firm.”
Technology infrastructure and security upgrades will take place at all five district high schools, two vocational buildings and the Alva T. Stanforth Athletic complex. New roofs will be installed at each building. New Hyde Park Memorial High School will receive $10.8 million in renovations, including new science and music rooms, renovated parking lots, revamped as well as door replacements. New wrestling and fitness rooms, guidance offices and a roof are also planned.
“All the companies made terrific presentations,” School Board President Dave Fowler said. “What we’re looking for is a commitment to us. We wanted to make sure we made the right decision. [Park East] was very receptive to our concerns that we want to be the focus of their work.”
The board also authorized Noresco LLC., a Huntington-based energy service company, to conduct a comprehensive energy audit of the district in lieu of a contract with the district.
If Noresco finds significant savings after the audit, the board would enter into energy performance contract negotiations for state approval, according to board member Joseph Armocida.
“They have to make sure the energy savings and the state aid pays for the work they’re going to do so that there’s no cost to the taxpayers,” Ferrie said.
Noresco will evaluate lighting, windows, roofs and ventilating, etc. for renovation. “The board does not have a contract [with Noresco] yet,” Ferrie said. “They have to take the work they projected for the project and make sure they can come up with the savings and projected state aid from the audit.” Ferrie said.
The next Sewanhaka Central High School District public board of education meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m.
