Transforming a formerly vacant lot into a modern educational facility, the Paul Robeson Charter School in Trenton has completed construction and is set to welcome 750 K-8 students.
The 55,000-square-foot, two-story building, named after the celebrated New Jersey-born actor, athlete, and singer, houses 38 classrooms, administrative offices, science labs, flexible learning spaces, elective areas, and academic support spaces.
Employee-owned structural engineering firm O’Donnell & Naccarato was brought in to assess earlier conceptual designs and suggest alternate structural systems. The Philadelphia-based firm provided comprehensive structural engineering support, including 3-D modeling, system selection, permit drawings, specifications, and construction administration throughout the construction of the Trenton school.
O’Donnell & Naccarato’s team comprised Kyle Terry, Daryl Fennell, Matthew Vandersall, and Joshua Gordon. Other companies on the project team included Aegis Property Group, Torcon Inc., Atkin Olshin Schade Architects Inc., and Bala Consulting Engineers.
“O&N’s detailed knowledge of educational facilities enabled us to implement a cost-effective structural approach to meet the school’s programmatic needs while respecting budget constraints,” commented Kyle Terry, Principal at O&N. “Whether public, private, or charter, every educational project requires structural engineers who understand both the technical and operational needs of school design. Our extensive portfolio helps us collaborate effectively with architects to create structures that support learning for generations.”
The $35 million campus includes a shared cafeteria/gymnasium, an open atrium located at the entrance, and outdoor spaces with sculpted berms designed for learning and play. The building’s construction utilizes hollow-core precast concrete planks spanning between masonry bearing walls, which has proven to be a durable system, well-suited to school construction. This structural system optimizes efficiency and delivers long-term durability.
O’Donnell & Naccarato boasts a portfolio of current and completed school projects across New Jersey. Some of those include Perth Amboy High School, KIPP New Jersey Public Schools, the Dayton Avenue Educational Campus, Essex County College, and the Hackensack Meridian Health School of Medicine.
