Feedback sought for Chartiers Valley school project

Architects for the Chartiers Valley middle and high school complex are looking for community feedback even as they continue to review schematic designs for the project.

Drawing board sketches plastered with red-penned drawings and comments signifying changes were discussed at last Thursday's community update meeting.

We're getting an understanding of what (teachers) need to do their job effectively, said Matt Hanson, an associate with IKM Inc., a Downtown-based architecture firm leading the project. We're paying more attention to what's inside the walls rather than the walls.

Hanson presented an updated 3D tour of the school. The most significant structural changes since January's meeting included a bridge connecting the middle school to the high school's performing arts wing and the addition of 60 parking spots.

Previously, middle-school students would have needed to walk outside to access the shared performing arts wing.

The community very clearly said students walking outside to get to the arts classes wasn't OK, so that physical connection was added, Superintendant Brian White said.

As far as parking, the school was expected to lose 40 of 716 spots in a lot that has previously been criticized for having too few spaces. Less space would have also eliminated the marching band's summer practice lot. But community feedback led to architects rearranging the location of the parking lot, while also shaping it as a mock size mini-field to allow the band to continue utilizing it when the stadium is in use.

Also brought into the discussion last week was the possibility of renovating the school's auditorium which was built in 1973 and in need of updates.

Some needed changes include seating view rearrangements, improved stage condition, acoustics and better accessibility to those with disabilities.

Commissioners voted to approve examining possible changes at last Tuesday's meeting after White mentioned that some were disappointed that fine arts department updates weren't addressed.

The rest is here:
Feedback sought for Chartiers Valley school project