J. Vinton Schafer Construction, serving as Construction Manager, is leading a comprehensive, multi-phase renovation at the Applications and Research Laboratory (ARL), the career and technical education center for the Howard County Public School System. The project is being executed as a carefully sequenced occupied renovation across five campus buildings, requiring detailed coordination to maintain daily school operations while advancing construction safely and efficiently.
The scope of work includes the complete replacement of exterior wall systems across all five buildings, significantly improving the building envelope, enhancing long-term durability, and increasing overall energy efficiency. In addition, extensive interior renovations to Buildings C and D are underway, featuring major upgrades to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, along with new interior finishes that create modern, functional learning environments aligned with current educational needs.
A full campus-wide fire alarm system replacement is also included, ensuring the facility meets current life-safety codes and provides a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors. The project is being delivered through multiple phases, with partial building turnovers strategically scheduled to allow instruction and programs to continue uninterrupted while construction progresses.
Through meticulous preplanning, proactive communication, and strict adherence to safety protocols, JVS has successfully minimized disruption on an active campus while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget control. This project reflects J. Vinton Schafer Construction’s expertise in managing complex, phased renovations in occupied educational environments and underscores the firm’s commitment to delivering durable, high-quality facilities that support hands-on learning and long-term career pathways for students—now and into the future.
