A major renovation of a magnet high school in Windsor, Md., has added a diverse mix of new teaching facilities while improving its energy efficiency.

A feasibility study and condition assessment conducted by Gannett Fleming for the Baltimore County Public Schools addressed Milford Mill Academy's current curricular needs in academic and technical programs. Based on that assessment, the project added a cosmetology center, a black-box theater, a 25,000-sq-ft gymnasium and four new classrooms. Further, contractors expanded the existing media center and enlarged classrooms and labs for the school's health-science technology programs and its academy for computer systems and network technology.

Also, the project team renovated the existing gymnasium structure, adding an intermediate floor and converting the upper level into nine classrooms. Workers also transformed the old gym's lower level into music and drama rooms. The project also included the addition of 36 parking spaces.

The roof system above the school's main office and child-care areas was reconstructed, and Gannett Fleming and Mullan Contracting Co. crews brought all major entrances into compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act standards. Other upgrades included the replacement of all windows and window shades, doors and frames, and hardware, as well as the installation of a new sewer line.

PAULCO Engineering and Wright Engineering designed upgrades to the mechanical and data-and-technology systems. Mechanical and electrical work included replacement of HVAC, plumbing and fire-protection systems; installation of new service, lighting and power distribution; and modifications to fire-alarm and communications systems.

While the county did not pursue certification through the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED program, it still wanted to maximize the school's energy efficiency. To meet that goal, designers incorporated double-glazed windows with low-E glazing. Most energy-efficiency gains were achieved through the building's mechanical and electrical systems. Items such as the air-conditioning and microprocessor-based rotary-screw chillers now feature air-cooled condensing units designed to operate incrementally, thus reducing energy costs. Crews also replaced the school's lighting fixtures with new components, added motion detectors for high-use rooms, and installed LED lights and photocells.

Milford Mill Academy Renovation and Expansion, Windsor, Md.

Key Players

Owner Baltimore County Public Schools

Design Firm Gannett Fleming

General Contractor The Mullan Contracting Co.

Structural Engineer Gannett Fleming

Civil Engineer Gannett Fleming

MEP Engineer Paulco Engineering

Electrical and Information-Technology Design Wright Engineering

Construction Administration Gannett Fleming