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The Pennsbury School District’s bid to build a new high school in Falls Township is expected to take a giant leap Thursday night.
The school board will vote on an architect for the project at a 7:30 p.m. meeting in the Fallsington Elementary School multipurpose room.
Two architecture firms — KCBA and Crabtree, Rohrbaugh, and Associates — were named finalists in a competitive selection process. The companies have presented their vision and qualifications to the public and the school board through a series of presentations and meetings held over the past month.
KCBA Architects highlighted their “Pennsbury Path” concept, a design feature designed to connect various parts of the campus while promoting accessibility and engagement.
KCBA representative Mike Kelly emphasized the company’s focus on versatility, environmental sustainability, and creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages personal experiences within large facilities.
KCBA representatives told the school board they would work to design a building that would gain daylight and be energy efficient. Additionally, security measures will be incorporated, entrances and exits will be improved, and separate areas will be established for public and private vehicles.
The KCBA team said they will work hard to create an inspiring environment for students.
KCBA Architects was responsible for the renovation of Charles Boehm Middle School, which had an increased budget. Company officials attributed the increased costs to unexpected challenges discovered after construction began.
Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates proposed a design centered on the concept of a “main street” designed to promote collaboration and community within the school.
The concept includes provisions for future expansion and emphasizes safety, sustainability and efficient traffic flow.
The company compared their concept to a previous project, State College Area High School, and noted similarities in the challenges faced.
Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates said their design work will focus on energy efficiency, safety and traffic flow. One aspect, they say, is reducing the impact of car parking and focusing on walking networks and landscaping appropriate to the area.
Taxpayers, including Lower Makefield Township residents Tim Daley and Robert Abrams, highlighted issues such as potential budget overruns and the impact on local property taxes.
Abrams called for a referendum on the plan.
The companies told the public this month that they could complete the project and meet the district’s goal of a new high school without major cost overruns or schedule delays.
Superintendent Dr. Thomas Smith said development of the final design will take place over the next year through extensive consultation with students, staff and community members.
If all goes according to the district’s road map, construction could begin next summer.
The new high school is expected to open in the winter of 2029.
The plan is expected to cost $240 million to $275 million, and the district aims to keep costs under $250 million to avoid a voter referendum.
The new high school will span 475,000 to 505,000 square feet and accommodate up to 2,800 students.
Pennsbury has enacted tax increases earmarked for capital projects and plans to issue bonds.
Chris Berdnik, the district’s treasurer, said the long-term financial strategy could result in principal and interest payments reaching $569.4 million, with the possibility of further borrowing to further improve the district’s condition.
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