Code Mandated Improvements

The middle and high school campuses have much larger and more complex structures due the special nature of programs offered on these campuses, as well as the increased number of students served. Matched with the age of these structures, a number of code-required updates will be needed for both the super structures and the building infrastructure. Depending on the structure, these code mandated improvements could include comprehensive seismic retrofits, upgrading of electrical infrastructure to support solar and EV charging, improvements to fire alarm systems, fire sprinkler system improvements, revisions to the emergency exit access, and door hardware improvements. These changes are due in large part to the State’s recognition of changes in education and campuses because of recent events in the last 50 years and changes in state priorities.

Recent events such as seismic events (like the Northridge Earthquake), recent safety events like Columbine, and changes in climate goals and strategies. While these new initiatives dramatically improve the quality of educational spaces and student safety, they force older campuses to be reimagined with initiatives they were never designed to support. As a result, a review of the campus plans shows more expansive interventions on the campus with a more significant cost related to proposed improvements.