James Whiteside Elementary, a K-7, single-storey 3,000 m2 wood frame building, first welcomed students in 1958. Since then, the school has seen several expansions. In 1960, change rooms and storage were added (part of block one), as was a gymnasium (block two). The growth continued with enhancements to block one between 1961 and 1967, the initiation of a third block in 1969, and further developments to block one from 1986 to 1988.
To continue serving the community and maintain structural integrity, the building needed further upgrades. Ausenco previously conducted a seismic risk re-assessment of the three blocks in 2018. Our team also prepared the related Seismic Project Identification Reports (SPIRs) and contributed to the Project Definition Report (PDR) in 2020. These confirmed a high seismic risk along with overcrowding issues, leading the Richmond School District to consider the school a high-priority project.
Client requirements
In response to these challenges and informed by the Ministry of Education’s Seismic Retrofit Guidelines (3rd Edition), the school undertook the design and construction of seismic upgrades for the three blocks and a new entrance structure.
The seismic upgrade process involved enhancing the foundations, strengthening the existing lateral load resisting systems, and improving the roof. The boiler room required special attention to ensure its compatibility with the main structure upgrade. Other parts of the school also needed minor upgrades.
Project solutions and approach
The elementary school exemplifies the typical construction of low-rise timber schools in the Lower Mainland, with few irregularities. Leveraging pre-developed strategies and tools, our team quickly analyzed the building and developed the detailed design. This approach enhanced coordination with other disciplines and facilitated more accurate cost estimates early in the project. The efficiency of the early design phase enabled our team to accommodate scope changes later on, including incorporating an accessible washroom and new rooftop mechanical equipment. We also designed a new front entrance structure, rejuvenating the appearance of the school and improving accessibility in accordance with current code requirements.
Outcomes and achievements
Working closely with the construction manager and school representatives, we minimized disruptions during the academic year during the construction phase. The project was completed successfully on time and within budget in summer 2023.
Ausenco’s expertise in seismic upgrades, role in developing the seismic retrofit guidelines and strong working relationship with the Richmond School District has allowed us to enhance the safety and resilience of buildings in earthquake-prone areas.