Berkeley County’s Hanahan Middle School Gets a Renovation Update!
Hey there, Berkeley County! We’ve got some news hot off the press about the ongoing renovations at Hanahan Middle School. Just a couple of nights ago, the Berkeley County School Board gathered for a special meeting where all the happenings regarding this much-anticipated project were on the table.
What Happened During the Meeting?
During the meeting, the board members made a crucial decision to reject the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) proposal from EDIFICE Construction. This means that the school board will now look towards the next contractor in line to discuss a new GMP. And don’t worry—this new proposal will also get the opportunity to be reviewed by the board before moving forward!
Why Is This So Important?
This renovation and expansion project is just part of a bigger plan that involves the one percent Education Capital Improvements Sales and Use Tax. Voters gave this initiative a thumbs-up back in November 2022. Not only does this plan include upgrades for Hanahan Middle School, but it also features the construction of a shiny new elementary school in the Jedburg Road area and another middle school nearby in Nexton.
Students on the Move!
While the renovation work takes place, staff and students at Hanahan Middle School have been temporarily relocated to a mobile campus set up at Hanahan Elementary School. Although it may feel a bit different, it’s all part of the plan to ensure students continue their learning journey while their own school gets a much-needed facelift!
What’s in Store for Hanahan Middle School?
So what’s actually being done at Hanahan Middle School? Well, prepare yourself for some exciting changes! The plan includes demolishing the 1961 main entry wing and constructing a brand-new 2-story wing that will boast 15 classrooms and 3 labs. This expansion will boost the school’s total square footage to just over 86,000 square feet!
Katie Tanner, the Chief Communications and Community Engagement Officer, emphasized just how important this project is for the community. “This project is vital because of the increasing number of students in the area,” Tanner explained. “We always want to make sure that our students have the appropriate space to learn and succeed.”
Don’t Worry—It’s Still On Track!
Now, you might be wondering if all this means any delays for the project. Tanner assured everyone that despite the vote on the GMP, the overall construction timeline will remain intact. “We did not have permitting approval to begin any type of land disturbance until January,” she clarified. So, at least that’s one less thing to stress about!
Looking Ahead
Officials are still crossing their fingers for Hanahan Middle School to open its doors to students in August 2026. Everyone’s looking forward to seeing how these renovations will not only enhance the school’s appearance but also provide an enriched environment for learning.
In conclusion, as the community continues to grow, so does the need for education facilities that can accommodate this growth. With exciting changes on the horizon for Hanahan Middle School, it’s clear that Berkeley County is committed to ensuring our students have the best opportunities to thrive!
