Happy Valley Elementary

The Opportunity

Originally constructed in 1912, Happy Valley Elementary School was completely destroyed by fire on October 14, 2005.

The Approach

Originally constructed in 1912, Happy Valley Elementary School was completely destroyed by fire on October 14, 2005.

In order to expedite construction of a replacement school, School District 62 began the design of a replacement school based on the plans from the recently completed Crystalview Elementary. By re-using aspects of the Crystalview Elementary plans, the design process was fast tracked to allow for construction to commence in January, 2006, with a completion date of February, 2007.

Westbrook Consulting was retained to design the site servicing for the school and grading of the new sports field constructed on the site of the original school. Westbrook was also involved in the conceptual and detailed design of a new staff parking lot and drop off zone that efficiently handles the morning arrival and afternoon pick up periods without traffic tie ups.

The new school was opened on schedule, in September of 2008.

In 2010, the provincial government changed the kindergarten class schedule from half day classes to full day classes, effectively doubling the amount of class space required. Westbrook Consulting was engaged as the civil engineer of record to provide design and construction services to modify the existing site services to allow for the additional student load.

Complexities of the project involved working in an active school site during the school year. This was accomplished effectively by the general contractor through close communication with the school staff, as well as adapting the delineated construction zone throughout the project to meet the needs of both parties.

The addition was completed in December 2011.

Key Personnel: Mike Wignall; Bruce Crawshaw; Phil Cerrer; Kevin Hossack