Infrastructure upgrade projects set for Cobb County Schools.
Swinerton, an industry-leading commercial general contractor with offices nationwide, is set to begin construction projects at two schools that are part of the Cobb County School District, one of the top-ranked school districts in Georgia and the United States. The combined $17.2 million infrastructure upgrades and renovations are set to transform the schools over the next 24 months, with completion in time for the 2026-27 school year.
“Swinerton is consistently ranked as one of the nation’s top education builders,” states Derek Mosiman, vice president, division manager, Swinerton’s Atlanta division. “At both schools, we’re committed to minimizing disruption to student learning by leveraging extensive preplanning, close collaboration with trade partners and regular plan reviews. This approach allows us to tailor our work to the unique needs and structure of each school and project.”
Using a phased construction plan, work is scheduled during school breaks in order to take advantage of when facilities are not in use.
At Harrison High School in Kennesaw, Ga., a school originally built in 1991, Swinerton serves as general contractor for the $15.4 million infrastructure upgrades and renovation. The project involves the replacement or installation of over 200 pieces of equipment throughout the school. The structural scope includes:
- conversion of the former home economics room to a new general classroom;
- upgrades to four restrooms with new fixtures, ADA railings, accessories and paint;
- replacement of two roof sections;
- upgrades to 14 rooftop HVAC units; and
- replacement of the air handler unit.
Additionally, a new emergency responder radio repeater system will be installed to enhance emergency communications by improving first responders’ handheld radio signal strength. Swinerton expects to leverage its self-perform expertise for the installation of door frames, hardware and acoustic ceiling tiles.
Construction is currently underway to enhance the infrastructure at Russell Elementary in Smyrna, Ga., a school originally built in 1961 and has undergone multiple renovations and additions. As general contractor for the $1.8 million phased project, Swinerton is currently overseeing the completion of several structural improvements including:
- removal and replacement of 15 rooftop units, five ductless split systems, four exhaust fans, a kitchen ventilation system and all associated air distribution ductwork,
- installation of an updated ANSUL Fire Suppression System along with an upgraded hood in order to decrease the risk of grease fires,
- upgrade of eight windows, primarily in the kitchen, and
- replacement of 72,000 square feet of ceiling tile throughout the school.
“Our work on schools is among our most meaningful,” notes Mosiman. “The idea that our work within the education sector is helping to shape our future leaders is a job well done in our books.” Some of Swinerton’s most notable education projects are the renovation of an office building into a school in Charlotte, N.C.; the building of a performing arts center for a Milpitas, Calif. high school and the construction of the first all-electric school in Coloroda known as Responsive Arts & STEAM Academy (RASA) in Denver Public Schools.
“These two local school projects emphasize the increasing versatility and expertise of our Atlanta team,” continues Mosiman. Recently, the company also announced its work with the City of Johns Creek, Ga. for its Fire Department’s new Station #643 that will also house a police substation. Since expanding to the Southeast in 2018, Swinerton’s Atlanta division has constructed nearly $500 million of commercial environments. The expert team of 70 construction professionals specializes in aviation, corporate interiors, healthcare, hospitality, and senior and affordable multifamily housing.
