Elbert Elementary Modernization
Winter Haven, FL
Welcome to the construction updates webpage for the Elbert Elementary Campus Modernization project. As this incredible community effort comes to life, the Suffolk and TMJ Team is proud to work alongside Polk County Public Schools to provide a positive experience for the surrounding neighborhoods.
About the Project
Elbert’s students deserve a contemporary, purpose-built learning environment, which is why the school is undergoing a complete modernization to enhance its facilities. Elbert Elementary was built in 1962, meaning many campus structures are more than 50 years old and need repairs for deteriorating conditions and updates to include modern technology and safety features. Due to the population boom in Polk County, student enrollment is expected to increase by an additional 50,000 students over the next 12 to 15 years. Elbert Elementary’s modernization will create much-needed classroom space as our community grows.
Suffolk and TMJ will demolish and rebuild nearly the entire school. The new facility will feature two-story buildings covering more than 126,800 square feet and will increase total capacity to 996 students.
The modernization will include:
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Brand-new classrooms
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Science labs
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A closed-circuit television (CCTV) studio/classroom
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Media center
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Early learning center for preschoolers and kindergarteners
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Cafetorium (combined cafeteria/auditorium facility)
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Full kitchen with serving lines
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Paved play court
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Two playgrounds: one for grades K-3 grades and another for grades 4-5
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Designated car line area designed for greater efficiency
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Specific area for bus dropoff/pickup
Construction Updates
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Concrete – the covered dining slab will be placed and the walkway canopy foundation excavation will begin by end of March.
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Roofing – coping cap and asphalt shingle installation to begin by end of March.
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Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Suppression - overhead installation continues in the multipurpose. The main switchgear has been delivered to the jobsite. The transformer is tracking a March delivery date.
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Framing – stud and track installation is complete on level 2 of the two-story and has moved into the multipurpose. Drywall & finishing installation continues in the level 2 classrooms, media, and multipurpose.
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Site – the site retaining wall is installed. Storm structure/piping & domestic/fire water piping installation continues. Wet tap to take place by the end of March. Ponds banks to be sodded by end of March.
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Casework – installation has begun in the L1 admin and classrooms.
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Glazer – aluminum storefront installation continues.
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Painter – 1st final coat is currently being installed in the interior of the two-story. Final paint continues to be installed on the exterior.
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Elevator – installation to start by end of March.
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Finishes – tile installation continues in the Level 2 restrooms and kitchen.
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Ceilings – acoustical ceiling grid & wire continues in L1, moving up to L2.
Meet the Team
Client
Construction Manager
Construction Manager
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Architect
Get Involved
The Suffolk team recently held a back to school donation drive to collect playground equipment for Elbert Elementary. As we renovate and expand the school to modernize its facilities, students will temporarily lose access to their playground. Our team's dedication to community support ensures that children have a place to play and stay active during this transition period.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to Principal Alex Wise, the teachers, and the staff at Elbert Elementary for their collaboration. Additionally, we deeply appreciate our incredible project team for their hard work and commitment to this cause.
Gallery
Contact Us
For concerns about construction-related activities, please email us at elbert@suffolk.com.