Salem Woods Elementary Modernization
Completed September 2018
Originally constructed in 1980, the school reflected the older design style common to that era, with exterior hallways and open walkways connecting classrooms. Many of the building systems—including electrical and heating—remained original and had not been updated in decades. As the structures aged, maintenance became increasingly difficult, and security was hard to manage with the exposed outdoor hallways.
The project broke ground in June 2017 and was completed in fall 2018, replacing much of the outdated campus with a two-story instructional building that provides 42,021 square feet of new construction—about 12,000 square feet larger than the old facility. Covered outdoor walkways were replaced with indoor hallways, giving students and staff protection from inclement weather while ensuring a more secure learning environment. The campus is now fully enclosed with perimeter fencing and a secure main entrance vestibule. New lighting and roofing eliminated issues such as dark classrooms and leaky ceilings.
The school now has 24 new classrooms—four more than before—arranged in pods around shared learning spaces. New facilities include a main office, library, special education spaces, outdoor learning areas such as a wetland deck, and expanded parking with a new bus loop for safer traffic flow.
The $23.8 million project was funded through $19.5 million from the voter-approved bond and $4.25 million in state construction assistance.
One remaining, old building containing the gym, lunchroom, and music area was not included in the renovation and will require future bond support for upgrades.