Construction Updates
Please check back here periodically for updates.
November 2024
Dear Neelsville Community.
The following are the latest developments with your school's project. Thank you for your support and collaboration. We have achieved several new milestones and will continue construction progress in the coming weeks.
October highlights include successfully paving the northeast parking lot and enhancing accessibility and safety. Following the paving of the northeast parking lot, we will stripe and install signage in November to ensure straightforward navigation for all users. We will also be adding topsoil and sod to the northeast lot to improve the aesthetics.
The demolition of the existing building has officially begun. While you may think that nothing has happened, demolishing a building is a complex process involving several critical steps, each requiring careful planning and execution to ensure safety and efficiency. Here’s a general timeline of the process and what to expect during the demolition of the original Neelsville Elementary School building.
Before demolition begins, Henley’s team thoroughly assesses the site to identify potential hazards and establish safety protocols. We work with local authorities to secure necessary permits and approvals for demolition.
All utilities (water, electricity, gas) were safely disconnected to ensure a secure environment during demolition.
Hazardous materials Were Removed from the original building, which certified professionals carefully removed before any tear-down demolition work began.
Structural Demolition and debris removal will begin in November. Heavy machinery will be used during the demolition of the building. This phase will be executed in a controlled manner to minimize noise and dust, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. As demolition progresses, debris will be systematically cleared from the site, helping maintain a clean and safe environment.
Once the building is demolished, the site will undergo a final clean-up to remove any remaining materials. This will set the stage for the next phase of the site construction.
The total duration of the demolition process can vary based on factors such as building size, complexity, and weather conditions. We will keep the community informed of our progress and any changes to the timeline as we move forward.
October 2024
Hello Neelsville Community!
We are excited to update you on the progress of your project and the start of the work that will be done in the next phase.
Throughout September, Henley Construction made significant strides in advancing the Neelsville Middle School project, focusing on both interior and exterior elements.
The Stormwater Management -11 was successfully set and underwent rigorous testing to ensure compliance and functionality.
Approximately two-thirds of the interior punch list items were completed, enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the building's interior spaces.
Work on the exterior building punch list continued throughout the month, addressing critical items to finalize the exterior appearance and functionality.
Looking ahead to October, Henley is set to achieve several key milestones:
In the Northeast parking lot in preparation for paving we will be backfilling SWM-11 to subgrade. We will prepare rough-in for the installation of light poles. We will continue with curb & gutter installation, sidewalk, handicap parking spaces and paving of the parking lot.
Finalization of punch list, achieving the completion of remaining interior and exterior items to ensure all construction elements meet quality standards and client expectations.
Commencement of demolition process for the existing original school building, marking a significant step towards the project's site transformation.
Henley Construction remains committed to delivering excellence in every phase of the Neelsville Middle School project, ensuring safety, quality, and community satisfaction throughout the construction process.
September 2024
Hello Neelsville Community!
We are beyond excited to celebrate with you the official opening of your brand-new building, which marks the completion of Phase One of the Neelsville Middle School project! The ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 22nd was a memorable event that symbolized the beginning of a new chapter for students, staff, and the entire school community. It is wonderful to see the students and educators enjoying the modern, thoughtfully designed spaces, which we hope will foster an atmosphere of inspiration, creativity, and growth for many years.
As we look toward the future, we want to share more about Phase Two of the project, which is set to bring even more improvements to your campus. This next phase will focus on deconstructing the old building and creating an array of exciting outdoor spaces. These spaces will enhance the school environment and provide opportunities for students to engage in physical activities, school functions, and community events.
Our team is committed to maintaining the high standards set in Phase One as we embark on this next stage of construction. We understand how important these spaces are for promoting a healthy and balanced school experience, and we aim to provide students with versatile outdoor areas that complement the academic facilities. Phase Two will not only transform the physical landscape of the school but also create opportunities for more robust community engagement through shared spaces that encourage collaboration, fitness, and outdoor learning.
We are dedicated to working closely with the Neelsville Middle School community throughout this journey. We will keep you informed with regular updates on the progress of Phase Two, and we look forward to celebrating the final unveiling of the complete campus.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm as we work together to create a vibrant, state-of-the-art environment for the students, staff, and community.
To ensure a smooth transition as everyone returns to the new school, we want to continue to provide important information about the updated traffic patterns. For your convenience, we have provided maps at the bottom of this message to help you navigate the new routes.
August 2024
Hello Neelsville Community!
As we wrap up summer and approach the completion of the new school portion of the project, we eagerly anticipate welcoming teachers, staff, and students to the new facility for the upcoming school year.
To ensure a smooth transition as everyone returns to the new school, we want to provide important information about the updated traffic patterns and have provided maps at the bottom of this message.
Entrance and Exit Points:
· The main entrance and exit for Student Drop-Off will be located on Neelsville Church Road and will be
identified with signage.
Parking:
· Staff Parking will be in the parking lot directly in front of the new school building, in the center of the
Student Drop-Off loop.
· Visitor Parking will be in the parking lot to the immediate left as you enter the new school's driveway.
Bus Route:
· The new bus route will enter and leave coming up Shakespeare Boulevard, turning onto Neelsville
Church Road, and entering further up from the new entrance. Buses will wrap around the old school
building to drop students off at the back entrance of the new school at the newly established bus loop.
Pedestrian Safety:
· Crosswalks and pedestrian paths have been clearly identified. We urge all drivers to be vigilant and yield
to pedestrians, especially in the early transition as we learn new traffic patterns and flow around the
new building.
We understand that transitioning to a new building can be challenging, and we are committed to making this process as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the school administration.
We look forward to celebrating this wonderful milestone, ensuring a fantastic start to your school year, and wishing each of you much success.
Go Nighthawks!
July 2024
Hello Neelsville Community!
We are pleased to bring you the latest updates on the school construction project at Neelsville Middle School. Our team has been working diligently to ensure that the project progresses smoothly and on schedule. We are excited to share some of the significant milestones we have achieved over the past month and several upcoming activities that will bring us closer to completion.
Below you will find a bulleted list of the progress of various aspects of the construction.
Site Work
· Topsoil at the basketball court area is being mixed and will be spread throughout the site.
· Roughing-in of bio ponds has started and Henley is coordinating with the Department of Public Safety
(DPS) for inspections.
· The South parking lot is nearing completion.
· The West lot's play area paving is complete.
· The monument sign masonry at the school's entrance is completed.
· Approval for sewer tie-in has been obtained.
· The loading dock heavy-duty concrete is complete.
· Sidewalk installation on the South side is ongoing. The sidewalk at the basketball court is ongoing.
Interior Work
First Floor
· VCT flooring will be completed in July.
· Final Paint touch-ups have been scheduled for mid-July.
· Final Electrical Inspections will be completed the second week of July.
· Final Mechanical Inspections are to be completed in July.
· Final punch Inspections are scheduled for mid-July.
Second Floor
· VCT flooring is completed and ready for waxing.
· Final Paint touch-ups started in June.
· Final Electrical Inspections are complete.
· Final Mechanical Inspections are to be completed in July.
· Pre-punch Inspections have been distributed.
Third Floor
· VCT flooring is completed, and waxing is ongoing.
· Final Paint touch-ups are nearing completion.
· Final Electrical Inspections have been completed.
· Mechanical Inspections will be completed in July.
· Pre-punch inspection is currently ongoing.
· Final punch inspection is scheduled for mid-July.
Functional Installations
· The Loading Dock is nearing completion, access will be ready the first week of July.
· Exterior Light Pole bases have been completed.
· North Canopy concrete is scheduled to be poured in the first week of July.
· Pepco power disconnect from existing school is scheduled for July to allow for remaining asphalt work
at the bus loop.
What’s Next?
· The Bio Ponds are prepped and will be finished in July.
· Paving final mobilization has been scheduled with the stripping crew up next. Front door access to the
building is expected to be ready by the first week of July.
We expect to reach substantial completion, including interior and exterior work, caulking, and glazing by the end of July. A site plan will be posted to MCPS, and communication established to ensure a smooth transition for Teacher’s Week.
We appreciate the community’s continued support and patience as we work towards completion.
June 2024
Hello Neelsville Community!
We’re back with another exciting update on your school's construction project. This month has been filled with incredible progress, and we’re thrilled to share all the latest milestones with you. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what’s been happening and what’s on the horizon as we near the completion of your new school.
Recent Site Progress
Ongoing Site Sidewalk: Construction of sidewalks around the site is in full swing. These pathways will provide safe, accessible, and well-defined routes for students, staff, and visitors.
Rough-in of Bio Ponds: We’ve initiated the rough-in work for bio-ponds are a key component of our stormwater management systems, designed to naturally filter and manage rainwater runoff, promoting environmental sustainability.
Interior Work Advancements
Dropping of Ceiling Tiles (Ongoing): Our team continues to install ceiling tiles throughout the building. This process is vital for completing the interior spaces and contributes to future soundproofing, insulation, and aesthetic appeal in your new school.
Finish Painting (Ongoing): Painting work is progressing smoothly, with ongoing applications of the final paint. This is the step that brings vibrant and welcoming colors to your new school, enhancing the overall ambiance of the school's learning environment.
Flooring Installation: Installation of vinyl composition tile (VCT) is in progress. VCT is a durable flooring option that is perfect for high-traffic areas in schools.
Ongoing Soffit Installation at Canopies: Soffit installation at the exterior entrance canopies is underway, providing both functional support and a polished look to these exterior structures.
Start of Wood Door & Hardware Installation: Installation of wood doors and hardware has begun. These doors not only enhance the security of your future school but add a warm finishing touch.
Start of Monument Sign Construction: The construction of your monument school sign has begun. This sign stands proudly at the entrance, continuously symbolizing the identity and spirit of your new school.
Functional Installations
Kitchen Equipment Hook-up (Ongoing): The kitchen is coming to life with the ongoing hook-up of essential kitchen equipment, ensuring that your cafeteria is fully operational and ready to serve students and staff on day one.
Visual Display Boards (Ongoing): The installation of visual display boards is vital for communication and will be used to display important information, student work, and announcements.
Locker Installation (Ongoing): The student's lockers are being installed throughout the building, providing them with personal storage space to keep their belongings.
Display Case Installation (Ongoing): Multiple display cases are being installed throughout the school. These cases will proudly showcase achievements, trophies, and memorabilia, fostering a sense of pride and community in your new school spaces.
Athletics Installation: The fitness and weight room is taking shape with the installation of equipment that will support your physical education programs and promote student health and wellness. Bleachers are also currently being installed in your gymnasiums, ensuring ample seating for spectators during sports events and assemblies.
Stage Lighting Installation: Installation of stage lighting is underway, preparing your performance space for future events and productions. The right lighting enhances the overall experience during performances and presentations.
Design Elements: The installation of shades is also ongoing, which will help control natural light and temperature within the building, creating a comfortable learning environment for students, teachers, and staff.
What Else?
Mrs. Escobar and Henley’s Project Manager took a tour with some of the school's teachers and staff last Friday, to see the construction progress firsthand, walking all the new spaces within the new building. Mrs. Escobar is proving to be a well-versed construction guide, providing all necessary information relevant to her team members. Thank you!
What’s Next?
As we move forward and come closer to the completion of your new school, you can expect to see the completion of these ongoing projects along with the start of new finishing details.
Partial Base Paving at South Bus Loop: We will begin making strides in our transportation infrastructure with the partial base paving of the South bus loop. This critical step enhances the foundation for our bus loop, ensuring smoother and more efficient traffic flow for future buses and vehicle use.
Flooring Installation: We will begin laying carpet in designated areas, adding a touch of comfort and warmth to classrooms and offices. The carpet will also help with noise reduction, creating a conducive learning environment.
Design Elements: We will begin installing platform wood flooring, adding a high-quality finish to various areas throughout the new school, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.
All this contributes to building the best learning environment possible for students, teachers, staff, and community members. We are committed to maintaining a high standard of safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the construction process.
We want you to know how incredibly grateful we are for your support and enthusiasm. We are almost there!
May 2024
We are delighted to provide you with the latest updates on your school construction project. Despite some April showers, our team has been rocking and rolling making awesome progress towards our goal of building you the ultimate learning sanctuary. Check out the exciting highlights:
Salvage Plan Preparation: Picture this, Henley teaming up with MCPS and our demolition crew to craft a plan to rescue materials from the old school. This initiative underscores our commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.
Rain, Rain, go Away: April threw us some curveballs with its rainy days, causing a bit of a delay in our outdoor activities. Nevertheless, progress continued on various fronts, including the ongoing installation of underground utilities and stormwater management systems.
Sediment Control Superheroes: When it comes to protecting our environment, we don’t mess around. Our team has been diligently maintaining sediment control measures to minimize environmental impact and ensure compliance with all regulatory standards.
Grading Galore: We’ve been sculpting the landscape, getting those play areas, basketball courts, and bus loops in tip-top shape. Approval of materials for site work enabled grading to proceed smoothly. Additionally, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks are being installed around the site to make navigating your future campus a breeze.
Area C Progress: We have passed the above ceiling inspections in Area C allowing for ceiling tiles to be installed throughout the spaces. Permanent power has also been established for all Areas C & D.
Area D Achievements: Quality checks? Check. Science labs? Check. Staircase to success: Double check! We’re making serious strides in Area D.
Area A Updates: All casework has been installed throughout Area A. Final above-ceiling inspections are scheduled to take place in May.
Area B Highlights: The above-ceiling work has been progressing steadily throughout April and is on track for completion by mid-May as well as installation of classroom casework. In the kitchen, the walk-ins and hood have been installed,, with the rest of the kitchen equipment scheduled for delivery in May.
Upcoming Milestones in May: At this point in the coming weeks and months, everything we’ve been working towards starts to pull together. We’re looking at final water, sewer, and gas hookups, window installations, elevator coordination meetings, gymnasium floor installation, cabinetry, paint throughout, and those finish details that will make Neelsville your very own.
We are grateful for your continued patience, support, and enthusiasm as we work towards creating a modern, safe, and conducive learning environment for our students. Stay tuned for future updates as we move closer to completion.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs.
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
April 2024
We’re thrilled to share the latest buzz surrounding your new school construction! Since our last update, progress has been moving along steadily.
March marked a significant milestone with the completion of brick veneer in the courtyard and the commencement of metal panel installation around the building – a visual testament to the project’s momentum.
We are now in the work-to-complete list, fine-tuning details to ensure top-notch quality. Area C, the hub of athletic spaces, is shaping up beautifully with gyms, locker rooms, and mechanical facilities mostly complete. As we step into April, anticipation mounts for the finishing touches like tile work and bathroom fixture installations. The gym’s wood flooring has arrived and will now sit for two weeks to acclimate before installation starts.
Area D, the academic core, has made strides with bathroom finishes, fume hood installations, and the imminent arrival of curtain walls – a promising sign of what’s to come.
Meanwhile, Area B hums with activity as the cafeteria and library spaces evolve with each passing day. From ceiling grids and cabinet installation to paint strokes, as well as the arrival of your commercial refrigerator and freezer which are on-site and will be installed this month.
Area A, housing administrative offices, classrooms, and science labs, casework has been ongoing throughout March and will continue into April. All bathrooms have been completed within this space.
Outside, the landscape undergoes its continual transformation as our site work teams continue with grading, our concrete contractor is following behind with the installation of the curb & gutter, as well as sidewalks around the new school. They have also begun staking out the seating wall in the courtyard. Other exterior projects include continuing with the cooling tower enclosure and the completion of the paving of the south parking lot. Washington Gas has seamlessly integrated its hook-up to the building.
We are dedicated to keeping the community in the loop every step of the way. We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire community for your support and enthusiasm for your new school’s development. Together, we are creating a hub for learning and growth that will benefit generations to come.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
March 2024
We are thrilled to share the latest update on the construction of your brand-new school. The project has been advancing at full speed, and we are excited about the developments that have taken place since our last update.
February was a whirlwind of activity, with the ongoing installation of ceiling grids, window installation, metal panels, and sheet metal coping. The MCPS team has been conducting rigorous inspections of above-ceiling and high-ceiling (gymnasium and music spaces) electrical and plumbing, ensuring that every aspect of the new building meets the specified standards. The exterior is coming to life as the brick veneer continues to be installed in the courtyard area, set to be completed in March.
Inside the classrooms and labs, the installation of casework is underway. Tile work and toilet partitions are being installed in restrooms. Vibrant coats of paint are being added in Areas A & D. We are currently putting together classroom mock-ups, which will soon provide a sneak peek into the incredible details awaiting you in your new school. As we dive into March, we will continue with interior tiling, painting, ceiling grid, and window installation as well as begin with the installation of plumbing fixtures in bathrooms and locker rooms.
In Area B, the future hub of your school in the Cafeteria bulkhead framing and drywall, paint, and mechanical electrical and plumbing rough-ins are ongoing with painting and the start of ceiling grids this month. In the kitchen, bulkhead framing and drywall as well as painting have started. The walk-in freezer/cooler and hood have been delivered and will be installed this month which will allow us to start on the ceiling grid and flooring in this space. Finally in the library, and Library drywall was going up throughout February and this month we will focus on bulkhead, painting, and possibly start ceiling grid work.
Meanwhile, outside the landscape is taking shape with the installation of curb and gutter and paving of the north parking lot. Sidewalks will soon curve their way around the grounds, and the north parking lots will soon be illuminated by the installation of light pole bases. We’re also gearing up for the next phase of stormwater management, cooling tower enclosure, and west seating area construction. Washington Gas has also been hard at work laying the groundwork for its gas lines.
We are dedicated to keeping the community in the loop every step of the way. We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire community for your unwavering support and enthusiasm during this exciting phase of your new
school’s development. Together, we are creating a hub for learning and growth that will benefit generations to come.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs.
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
January/February 2024
The Neelsville Middle School construction project continues to make great progress with the construction of your new state-of-the-art school! The site is buzzing with activity so here’s a look at what’s transpired with your project.
At the beginning of construction projects when sitework is being prepped and steel is being set in place, it looks like a lot is happening, which it certainly is. However, once the structural steel is in place and walls and roofs are built, suddenly, the job site can look quiet in comparison, but a lot of work is taking place within the structure.
In the last several months, Henley oversaw exterior roofing activities, which included the Courtyard and some of Area B, soon to be your new Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Interior stud framing (your walls) continued in Area A, the new administrative/office space, classrooms, and science labs, as well as in Area B. We have begun the installation of your windows as well as the Water Source Heat Pumps (WSHPS). Ongoing drywall installation, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) rough-ins, ceiling grid installation, painting, and CMU have continued throughout all your new school spaces. The assembly and installation of your new gym equipment, casework, and bathroom fixtures are underway.
On the school's new site, we began the installation of curbs and gutters, sidewalks, and paving at the North parking lot. Underground we continued with the installation of storm and water and sewer lines. We will begin the process of confirming topsoil testing to verify that we meet the necessary park specifications when the project is completed.
Lastly, Neelsville’s school leadership was recently taken on a tour with Henley’s team and Montgomery County Division of Construction, Project Manager, Rob Bastibner, to walk through the new building and see first-hand the progress with construction.
Know that as we build, we recognize that this isn’t just a building, it’s a symbol of our collective commitment to excellence, opportunity, and the limitless potential of your community’s future. Together we are building something truly extraordinary.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
December 2023
As the temperature is dropping we have been enclosing the new school structure and providing temporary heat to keep construction moving forward through the cooler winter months.
In November we oversaw the low roof activities in the courtyard and a portion of roofing in Area B with the balance of Area B roofing to be completed in December. There is ongoing interior and exterior work including stud framing in areas A and B, drywall installation, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) rough-ins, ceiling grid installation, painting, and CMU blocking. Area B3’s slab on deck pour which now completes all the building's floor installations. We have also begun the main gym’s equipment assembly.
Site work in November included the completion of stormwater management (SWM-18) installations and backfilling of the Underground Structure (UGS-1). Ongoing water line and storm installation are still taking place. We have begun cutting grades for the new North parking lot and preparing for stoop installation at all exterior doors into the school building.
This month we will focus on the following building activities including the last roof installation at Area B, exterior brick veneer in Areas A, B and Courtyard, ongoing drywall, paint, tiling, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough-ins, and ceiling grid throughout. We will begin installing windows throughout and casework will begin arriving for future installation.
On the site, we will continue with storm line and water line installations. We will begin paving as well as installation of curbs, and gutters on the North parking lot, as well as begin sidewalk installation. We will also start the process of confirming topsoil testing to ensure that we meet the required park specifications when installation begins.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
November 2023
Large milestones completed in October included the completion of the roof decking, concrete poured at stair 3, and completion of the underground stormwater management and sewer systems (SWM-17, & UGS) on the west and north side of the construction site. We hope that identifying these site work milestones helps you to understand the amount of work that takes place underground to support the lasting operations of your new school facility. It’s an area that we recognize the average individual isn’t aware of and hope that providing you with these narratives will help with understanding what you might be seeing.
As for the school structure, scaffolding is being erected to begin installing brick masonry walls in the new courtyard. At the new gym space – sprinkler systems and mechanical systems were installed, and walls were painted, ready to begin receiving equipment for installation. Metal stud walls, as well as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, and drywall, continue to be installed throughout areas A, B & D (admin, science lab, classroom, and cafeteria spaces). The final concrete slab on deck in Area B3 will be poured at the end of November. Final paint and finish colors have been selected by MCPS and the Architectural team.
Milestones with site work. Our contractor has completed the installation of storm, sewer, and water on the west side of the construction site. They are working on another stormwater management system (SWM-18) including the excavation for the installation. As they work you will notice a stockpile of dirt that has been temporarily placed on one half of the tennis courts in collaboration with the school principal, Mrs. Escobar. Safety measures have been installed for the protection of anyone utilizing the second court.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs.
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
October 2023
As we start the Fall season, we have the following updates on the construction of your new school.
As we reported last month all structural steel was completed. Roofs have been installed in Areas A, C & D (see below to identify spaces). We also completed a mock-up panel of the brick veneer for approval from MCPS Division of Construction and were approved to proceed with the brick veneer you see our masons installing on the exterior of the new building.
Throughout October we will be working in Area B, prepping, and pouring the third-floor slab on deck (meaning your future floor). Our teams will continue working on the ongoing Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) rough-ins and metal stud walls throughout areas A & D. The masons will continue with the brick masonry veneer on the exterior of the school. We will also be creating a tiling mock-up in the locker rooms for approval from MCPS Division of Construction.
As for site work, our contractor has completed the installation of the north stormwater management system piping. During the excavation of the Underground Structure (UGS-1), which is necessary for the school's future stormwater management, rock was encountered during the excavation. Our teams are working diligently to get it removed so that the underground structures can be installed. Meanwhile, we will continue with the installation of storm, sewer, and water on the west side of the construction site.
Reference Guide of Future School Spaces:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
September 2023
As we start the new school year a lot of construction activities took place throughout the summer with the biggest being that all steel was completed in all four areas of the building, which culminated in a "Topping Out" celebration that was held on-site with all our trade contractors, architects, and several of the school's administration, on Friday, September 1st in what will be your new gymnasium.
As the framework of your school is set, we are continuing to work on finishing the slab on deck on each of these area's interior spaces.
As a large picture overview of areas, A, B, C, & D, and what will be included in the finished space of the school:
Area A: Administrative/Office space, classrooms, and science labs
Area B: Cafeteria, Kitchen, and Library.
Area C: Athletic spaces including gyms and locker rooms, mechanical equipment room.
Area D: Classrooms, science labs, and all associated mechanical spaces.
Currently, areas A & D's decks are completed, and we have begun pouring the second and third floors in Area B. Interior stud walls have been going up as well as MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) rough-ins in areas A & D and will continue in these spaces into the month of September.
July 2023
As we prepare for the new school year, Henley’s teams remain aware that we will be working in an occupied setting with students, staff, and the community. We will revisit with our trade contractors student drop-off and pickup times to ensure the safety of all students, staff, and community members. We will continue to work with and keep the lines of communication open with the school's administration regarding scheduling and all construction activities to minimize any disruption.
In construction, weather plays a large part in the planning and execution of projects and July provided us with no impacts on scheduling with negative weather events, aside from being very hot. For our teams working in the field at Neelsville Middle School, we made sure to ensure proper safety protocols were in place to protect them from heat exhaustion.
As for construction changes that you can see, almost all the steel has been erected in four areas. Areas A and D will include new administrative spaces, classrooms, and science labs. Area B, which will be your new kitchen, multi-purpose room, and music rooms. Area C, which includes most of your new athletic spaces including the main gym, the second gym, the auxiliary gym, fitness and weight rooms, and a mechanical room on the second floor. Several of the attached photos include images of interior progress, including the installed mechanical equipment as well as the gym locker bases, which are poured and awaiting lockers.
August will see the new roof going onto Area C (your gym), the remaining steel going up in Area B, and the completion of the CMU (concrete masonry unit) walls in Area A (administrative, classrooms, and science labs). You will also notice the installation of a very large underground stormwater management structure. Henley has been working closely with the site contractor and MCPS to ensure the safety and coordination with the installation of this stormwater system are in place for the school community and our subcontractors.
We are thoroughly enjoying building your new school and are happy to address any questions you may have regarding its construction.
April 2023
By now we are sure you have noticed the large crane that showed up last week at the construction site. The crane, known in the industry as a crawler crane, has been moved to its required location to begin the process of setting the steel beams, which started on 3/30/23. Keep watching, as you’ll start to see the main structure of your new school coming together.
Prior to the crane’s arrival footings were placed throughout the site and foundations have been going in. The large grey walls that you see going up by our masonry contractor, are for your new gym and should be finished by the first week of April.
All the underground electrical and plumbing work we told you about in the last newsletter has been completed in three of the four work zones. The new storm structures and piping on the East side of the site is complete.
Henley’s teams remain fully aware that we still work in what is referred to as an occupied setting with students, staff, and the community. We will continue to keep the lines of communication open with the school's administration with scheduling and all construction activities to minimize any disruption.
Thank you for the opportunity to build your new school. We love what we do every day and take seriously the value a well-built school brings to you as students, staff members, and community.
Phase 1
The new Neelsville Middle School project is moving forward, and we are excited to be able to share some current milestones with you.
All new Neelsville Middle School construction is taking place in the areas, which on this image look like a series of lines and markings. Henley’s teams remain fully aware that we still work in what is referred to as an occupied setting with students, staff, and the community. We continue to keep the lines of communication open with the school's administration with scheduling and construction activities to minimize any disruption to the students and staff.
As for construction progress, we have currently completed the building foundation and have ongoing site utility work, including electrical and plumbing in sections C and D. This month will also see the start of the foundations in sections A and B with underground utilities to follow.
To the average person, we understand that it doesn’t look like a lot has happened at the site, however, all the infrastructure, the fundamental facilities and systems that will be necessary in serving the new school, begin with what we are currently building underground. So, while it may not appear to be much, doing this right is imperative.
Henley’s team is as excited as you are for the completion of your new school and look forward to sharing its progress as we move toward that goal.