CREC Academy of Aerospace

CREC Academy of Aerospace, Windsor, Connecticut

Client: Friar Associates
Owner: Capitol Region Education Council (CREC)

Freeman Companies provided integrated site development and engineering design services to the Architect for this dynamic new 150,197 SF themed learning environment planned for 735 students in Grades 6—12.  This project consisted of the re-use of an existing office building that was partially demolished and then partially renovated.  An initial due diligence package was prepared for the Owner consisting of an A-2/T-2 level Boundary and Topographic Survey and Phase I Environmental Site Assessment.

Subsequent work efforts, as prepared by Freeman Companies for the Architect, included Phase II and Phase III Environmental Site Assessments and the investigation of the existing storm drainage and sanitary sewer pipe systems. Freeman Companies has also been responsible for the overall civil engineering design and permitting of the school.  The large campus called for many different parking areas with complex drainage design to accomodate the variety of surface areas.

The site was formerly utilized as an office building and has been retrofitted to educational standards and specifications. Site improvements include the demolition of a portion of the existing building structure, the addition of a new wing to the building to house a gymnasium, cafeteria and auditorium as well as the conversion of a portion of the parking area to sporting fields.

For the school’s distinctive design, the Architect called upon Connecticut’s rich history in aeronautics and aviation as evidenced by a contemporary "airfoil" form (to emphasize the Middle School's façade) as well as the application of exterior materials inspired by the Hubble Telescope's deep space photograph of the Lagoon Nebula. Other façade treatments also make reference to the lunar landscape.

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