Brinkmann Constructors Complete $70 Million Project Early

ST. LOUIS — Brinkmann Constructors wrapped up construction of the $70 million Westminster Christian Academy one year ahead of schedule, saving up to $1.3 million.

Plans for the school had been discussed for the past eight years but the poor economy caused delays.

Donations from the community — including 30 acres of land and millions of dollars in donations — allowed contractors to start work in December 2010.

“We broke it down into six individual projects instead of one large project so we were able to build them concurrently,” said Andy McDonnell, project director for Brinkmann.

The original plan called for completion in two years but construction and design teams were able to finish the project in one year — in time for the 2011-12 school year. Doors opened to the new class of students Aug. 22, 2011.

“It was a team effort. Our subcontractors committed their most experienced people to the project, delivered thoughtful solutions and built with extraordinary proficiency,” said McDonnell.

St. Louis, Mo.-based Zwick + Gandt Architecture Inc. served as the design firm for the project.

The 325,000-square-foot school was constructed with innovative technology in mind, according to officials from the project team.

Almost $3 million in technology was invested in the school and 16 flat-screen monitors were placed throughout the school to post announcements. Classrooms are also equipped with smart boards and smart phones or iPads capable of accessing classroom projectors.

“The smart use of technology will greatly enhance education and unite students, faculty and staff,” said Zach Clark, director of advancement at the school.

The design also adhered to the school’s Christian faith and features iconic Celtic crosses on its façade.

The campus is divided into separate academic wings into “neighborhoods,” with a unifying common area for middle school and high school students.

An abundance of windows strategically designed throughout the building keep students and faculty members visually connected, officials said.

Along with the academic facilities, the design team constructed a separate wing for athletics that features a 2,000-seat gym, an eight-lane swimming pool, a weight room, and a locker and shower area for students. The football stadium, located below the stadium plaza, seats 2,000 attendees.

The high school also features college-like amenities with an on-campus café, including a full-service coffee bar and kitchen.

Creative thinking helped manage costs and speed up the construction process without interfering with the quality of work, officials said.

Brinkmann repurposed portions of an 80,000-square-foot building on the site by reusing a kitchen and gym.

“Through its creative approach, the Brinkmann team helped us maximize the value of every contribution from our generous donors,” Clark said.