Wayne J. Griffin Electric renovates electrical at Stevens High School

Stevens High School - Claremont, NH

Claremont, NH Wayne J. Griffin Electric, Inc. concluded the electrical installation work as part of an overall upgrade of Stevens High School. Originally constructed in 1868, the institution underwent a two-phased renovation and addition, in a little over a year’s time.

Phase one of the project included outdoor site work, which entailed a new bus drop-off lane, new crosswalks, additional parking and improved site lighting. The building also added two entries: one main entry, where original stone pillars were repurposed from the initial construction, and an event entry, which was added off of the main parking area for entrance into the gym/auditorium portion of the building.

The 85,000 s/f school underwent an energy system upgrade as part of the second phase of construction. Updated mechanical, electrical, plumbing and security system, including fire alarms and sprinkles, were included. Additionally, the building received new exterior insulation and windows, which were designed to maintain the school’s historical character. A new kitchen and expanded cafeteria were also part of the upgrade, in addition to the construction of a new science pod on the third floor. Bathrooms were modernized with new finishes and plumbing, as well as the floor, ceiling and wall finishes throughout the school. Each upgrade was based on the Northeast-CHPS standards, to produce a high-performance school, with an energy efficient, environmentally-friendly and healthy learning environment.

Under the direction of project manager, Michal Blum and foremen, Ken Riendeau and Chris Kesek, the Griffin Electric team was responsible for the installation for lighting, lighting controls and switchgear through the renovation. Additionally, systems for fire alarm, sound and telecommunications were part of the company’s electrical contract.

Being a phased renovation, the majority of the onsite work was completed while the building was being occupied. Careful planning had to take place to ensure all systems were operational while school was in session. Due to the age of the facility and its structural additions through the years, there were several unknowns when dealing with systems upgrades, including electrical. All subcontractors needed to work in close collaboration with each other, in addition to the project architect and construction manager, to minimize any onsite issues, and ensure the project was completed within its scheduled timeframe.

Construction Consulting Services served as the owner’s project manager, while Trumbull-Nelson Construction as the construction manager. Banwell Architects, was in charge of the project’s design while WV Engineering Associates was the project’s electrical engineer.