CAREER CONNECTED CENTER > SPRINGFIELD, OHIO

The Greater Springfield Career ConnectED Center is part of a consortium that was awarded an $11.3 million state grant to renovate the former South High School, a building that had been sealed and unoccupied for more than five years. The Northern wing was gutted and renovated to house manufacturing and computer science training spaces, and offices for Springfield City School District staff supporting grant-related programs. Spaces for students to explore their interests are clustered in the center part of the building. These include a Makerspace and a YOUmedia Learning Lab—a 21st century teen learning space—under the iconic dome.

Kapp Construction not only met the project deadline, but more areas than promised were completed, and the project came in under budget. Renovation of this 104-year-old school included a hybrid HVAC system, utilizing the existing VAV (variable air volume) and hydronic systems with new packaged boiler units for heat, and new air handler and horizontal units for cooling. When challenged with low headroom, we implemented high velocity heating and coiling systems. The newly-created learning, meeting, and administrative spaces are all state-of-the-art, with modern furniture and bright, energetic color schemes throughout the 48,000-square-foot space.

The angular, modern ground-floor entry invites guests to enter off the north parking lot, providing a bright and cheerful entrance accessible for all visitors.