HAMPTON—Hampton City Schools has partnered with architectural firm RRMM to design a new 35,000 square foot science wing for Kecoughtan High School. Being branded as “The Academies of Kecoughtan High School—My Future, My Journey,” the new science wing will include 15 new science classrooms that will replace the existing science classrooms and all portable classrooms (trailers).
Built in 1963, Kecoughtan High School is one of the oldest public high schools in Hampton, second only to Hampton High School, which was built in 1956. The current science classrooms are now nearly 60 years old and are completely outdated. During the construction of the new science wing, those classrooms will be remodeled and updated to turn them into general-purpose classrooms.
The initial estimate for the project was projected to be just under $15.5 million. However, with the cost of raw materials going up and supply chain disruptions, the construction itself could rise above $16.1 million. Another $1.9 million is projected for fixtures, furnishing, equipment, utility fees, and other additional services.
In addition to providing a safer and more secure facility that will include specialized equipment for dual enrollment and advanced placement course offerings, Hampton City Schools is hoping the investment will help them recruit and retain hard-to-find science instructors that will help support twenty-first century science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) requirements and curricula.
The total cost estimate is expected to be submitted to the city in October and bids for the construction will go out in November if the site plan is approved. The city would like to award the contract by December so that construction of the new science building can be completed by January 2023. Given current material and labor shortages, that target date may fluctuate.
