Project Overview

North Thurston High School underwent a comprehensive three-phase modernization and expansion project to enhance the learning environment for its 1,500 students. The project included the construction of a new health and fitness building, a redesigned administrative and classroom wing, and a state-of-the-art performing arts center.

The modernization was carefully planned to reinvigorate and reconnect the campus through strategic design solutions. These improvements included a redesigned front entry to provide a welcoming focal point for the community, the removal of outdated portable classrooms, and optimized circulation pathways between the Library, Commons, and classrooms.

Scope of Work

As part of this major renovation, our team was responsible for upgrading the school�s electrical infrastructure while maintaining daily campus operations. The key elements of our work included:

• Replacement of the 15kV primary electrical distribution system to support new and existing campus facilities.
• Minimizing power outages by keeping the existing 15kV system operational during construction.
• Upgrading power infrastructure to support modernized classrooms, common areas, and performance spaces.
• Implementing energy-efficient lighting and power solutions throughout the new and renovated buildings.
• Coordinating with the district and contractors to align construction with available funding and minimize disruption.

Challenges & Solutions

One of the most significant challenges was completing a major electrical upgrade on an active campus without disrupting the school�s daily operations. Our team conducted extensive pre-planning and phased construction to ensure the existing 15kV system remained functional until the new system was fully operational. As a result, we successfully limited the total outage time to less than eight hours.

Additionally, cost constraints required careful budgeting and value engineering to align the project with available funding. Through strategic planning and collaboration, we helped optimize the electrical design while maintaining high-performance standards.

Results

The successful completion of this project provided North Thurston High School with:

• A fully upgraded 15kV electrical distribution system to support long-term campus needs.
• Modernized energy-efficient power and lighting systems for improved sustainability.
• A seamlessly integrated electrical infrastructure for new and renovated facilities.
• Minimal disruption to students and staff through careful planning and execution.

By delivering a future-proof electrical system within the district�s budget and schedule, we played a key role in transforming North Thurston High School into a modern, connected learning environment that will serve the community for years to come.