Summer Forecast Calls for Construction Progress Across Forest Hills Public Schools

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co.
23 hours ago
3 min read

Summer break may have arrived for students, but construction crews are hard at work across the district. With eight major projects underway across the Forest Hills Public Schools district, many campuses are seeing progress that will enhance learning environments, athletic facilities, and student experiences for years to come.

Take an onsite look at the future Forest Hills Aquatic Center! Believe it or not, this photo was taken from what will soon be the deep end of the competition pool.

Here is your summer construction forecast:

New Aquatic Center

Momentum continues at the new Aquatic Center as masonry work progresses throughout the facility. Crews have completed the second-floor precast plank installation for Units C and D while underground plumbing and electrical rough-ins continue. Construction is currently focused on the observation corridor, which will feature large viewing windows overlooking both the competition pool and the smaller warming instructional pool. This area is one of the most structurally complex portions of the project, serving as a critical connection point that will support much of the building's future structural steel and masonry, so crews are taking extra care to ensure it is built with precision.

Work is also advancing in the surge tank room, pool mechanical spaces, locker rooms, offices, and future second-floor stadium seating areas. Outside, grass has been established around the retention pond, helping stabilize the site. The next major milestone is completing the roof over the pool areas, allowing excavation of the warm-water pool to begin this fall, followed by the competition pool this winter.

Pictured above: Construction of the observation corridor is underway. The structural steel and steel joists provide the framework that supports the building and distributes the weight of the structure as construction continues.

Meadow Brook Elementary

Construction at Meadow Brook Elementary has entered the rebuilding phase, with crews making steady progress throughout the building. Electrical demolition is complete, footings are being poured in preparation for masonry work, and HVAC ductwork is being reinstalled. Renovations are taking shape in the gymnasium, cafeteria, office, and main entry, where updates include new carpet, paint, acoustical panels, windows, ceilings, and extended railings.

The main office remodel continues to move forward, with walls expected to be completed by mid-July. Additional improvements include expanded restroom areas and ongoing interior upgrades. Once masonry work is complete, crews will transition to drywall and painting, bringing these renovated spaces one step closer to completion.

Around the District

Construction is progressing across every corner of the district, with crews making the most of the summer months before students return this fall. Here are some other projects happening:

Central High School: Renovations continue across multiple phases, including mezzanine air handling unit rough-ins and controls, masonry work, MEP rough-ins, gym flooring, ceiling grid installation, and architectural finishes. Demolition, light gauge framing, casework installation, and preparations for Phase 5 are also underway.
Central High School Athletics – Phase 1: Site demolition, grading, and utility work continue as crews begin concrete work for the ADA ramp and dugout/backstop foundations. Net tie-backs and stadium light pole bases are also taking shape.
Northern High School Athletics – Phase 2: Retaining walls, site grading, storm underdrain installation, and concrete preparation continue for the baseball and softball facilities. Fence posts are being installed, and stadium light poles are next.
Eastern High School Athletics – Phase 2: Fence post installation continues while crews begin constructing the concrete turf anchor curb and prepare for the new bleacher pad and lacrosse wall.
Northern Hills Middle School: Interior work includes demolition, underground utilities, MEP rough-ins, door frame installation, and ongoing masonry.
Ada Elementary: Renovations are underway with demolition, saw-cutting, and the start of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough-ins as the building is prepared for its next phase of improvements.

From classrooms to competition venues, this summer's construction season is bringing meaningful improvements to schools across the district. While students enjoy their well-earned break, crews are making the most of the summer months to prepare updated learning spaces and athletic facilities that will serve students, staff, and the community for years to come.

Be sure to check back throughout the summer as we continue to share construction progress from projects across the district.