J. Vinton Schafer Construction, LLC provided Construction Management Agency (CMa) services to Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) for the demolition of the existing Homestead Wakefield School and the construction of its replacement facility. Acting as an extension of the HCPS facilities team, our firm delivered comprehensive preconstruction and construction phase services to ensure the success of this important project.
During the preconstruction phase, we developed cost estimates, conducted detailed constructability reviews, prepared prime contract scopes, and established both the project schedule and phasing plan. Throughout the construction process, we managed multiple prime contractors, maintained and updated the project schedule, tracked LEED requirements, and oversaw all construction activities. We assisted HCPS with project procurement, coordinated and facilitated administrative functions, and supported effective site management to keep the project on schedule and within budget.
The new elementary school was designed around grade-level clusters, including a dedicated pre-kindergarten wing. Each classroom provided flexibility in instruction and learning, accommodating groups of various sizes with spaces that could expand or contract as needed. The classrooms were designed with maximum connectivity to future-ready resources, including voice, video, Wi-Fi, and data cabling infrastructure.
Staff work areas were arranged to promote interdisciplinary interaction, while the main office suite was strategically designed to allow clear observation of the building’s primary entrance. The design emphasized natural daylighting and interior spaces that fostered a sense of community. In addition, the school featured recreational spaces intended for both student use and shared use by the surrounding community, strengthening the school’s role as a central gathering place.
