NEW YORK – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, has awarded a $24 million contract to Benard Associates of Wayne, N.J., for the renovation of the existing Middle School facility at the U.S Military Academy at West Point as well as an addition to the facility.
The project involves the renovation of the original middle school, which was built in 1934 and has been designated a historic landmark, the demolition of a wing built later in 1954 and the construction of a new approximately 31,000 square foot addition. Once work is completed, the middle school will be approximately 62,000 square feet.
“We owe it to our service members to provide top-notch facilities for their families while stationed at West Point,” said New York district commander Col. John Boulé. “This work will help ensure their children receive a great education while their parents are serving.”
The renovation work at the historic 1934 building will update all classrooms, office areas and the auditorium, including improvements to meet existing security and fire safety codes as well as Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
The new addition will provide new, science classrooms, general purpose classrooms, computer labs and student information center, graphic arts and art classrooms, music and practice classrooms for the band and chorus and a new cafeteria.
"We are so fortunate to receive the funding that will move this project forward,” said Principal David Rudy of West Point Middle School. “Our parents, students, and teachers are excited about the ways in which the modernization of this historic facility will further our educational objective to ensure highest achievement for all learners."
West Point Middle School serves more than 300 students in grades 5-8 that are children of service members stationed at West Point. The school is part of the Department of Defense Education Activity.
As part of the contract, the new facility must meet environmental requirements to be certified as at least LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Buildings Council standards.
Work on the project will be completed in phases, with the addition slated to be completed and ready for students and faculty in time for fall 2013 classes and the renovation and demolition work being completed in 2014.