Construction Updates

The most exciting development this month was the successful laying of the foundation for our new two-story addition. This foundational work is a critical turning point in the project, moving us from the preparation and demolition phases into the active build of our new structures.

With the concrete set, we have established the literal "groundwork" for the future of CCA. This new footprint will eventually house our expanded Middle School wing, modernized classrooms, and enhanced small group spaces, all designed to better serve our students and staff.

December was a pivotal month for the construction team who capitalized on the mild weather and an empty campus over winter break to move the project significantly forward. The unseasonably warm December temperatures provided ideal conditions for ground work, preventing the typical delays associated with frozen soil or heavy snow. 

• Foundation Excavation: The crew has successfully reached the bottom of the foundation. This marks the completion of the heavy earth-moving phase for the building’s footprint.

• Concrete Preparation: With the site cleared to the necessary depth, the focus has shifted to prepping the ground for upcoming concrete pours.

• Transformer Shoring: Specialized shoring was installed near the site transformer. This critical safety measure ensures the school's existing electrical infrastructure remains stable and secure during the adjacent structural work.

Key Milestones Completed in November
The primary focus this month centered on clearing structures and preparing specific areas for new construction. The most notable changes include:

• Demolition of Back Middle School Stairs: The staircase located at the back of the middle school wing has been safely and completely removed. This demolition was a critical step in reconfiguring the site's footprint and will be the future connection point of the new Middle School Addition.
• Removal of Modular Building: The modular structure, which has served various functions over the years, has been successfully dismantled and removed from the premises.
• Decommissioning of Playground Equipment: The "Spiderweb" climbing structure has been safely removed from the playground area. 

With the major demolition phases largely complete, the project team will now transition its focus toward site utilities, foundational work, and framing of the new structures. We appreciate everyone’s continued flexibility and patience as we work through temporary changes to access and routine.

While pre-construction work at Cherry Creek Academy began in September, we held our official Groundbreaking Ceremony in October to formally mark the start of this exciting new chapter for CCA.

The event was attended by key partners, including representatives from the Cherry Creek School District, CCA's Board of Directors, the Bond Committee, and our dedicated construction partners: RTA Architects, CBRE, and GH Phipps Construction.

The primary focus of construction activities throughout October was centered on ensuring building safety and compliance with fire and safety regulations.

Specifically, the work involved creating new egress doors and alternative exits. Egress refers to the safe and continuous path of travel that occupants must follow to exit a building, structure, or area. By installing these new doors and exits, the project is proactively addressing a critical component of safety requirements as it moves toward its next stage.

This focus is essential because it directly supports the process of obtaining final permit approvals. Buildings must demonstrate adequate and safe exit strategies to receive permits from local authorities. Completing this work helps prevent delays in the permitting process and ensures the facility will meet all necessary safety codes during construction.