Wiles Mensch Corporation – DC (WM) provided surveying and civil engineering services for the modernization of Garrison Elementary School. The deteriorating historic educational facility was constructed in 1964, replacing the original structure, built in 1889. Garrison is located in the high traffic U-Street Corridor, adding complexity to the full modernization. The project includes a building addition, site improvements, and the incorporation of a community playground and field.

WM provided boundary, topographic, and utility surveys as a basis for the design team. Civil services included erosion and sediment control, site grading, utility design, and stormwater management. Stormwater design included an underground infiltration trench to manage runoff from the roof, and several bio-retention areas to address the outdoor spaces.

The WM team also provided input and site observations on the concept site plan provided by the architect. The team completed limited exterior design work including replacement of utilities, redesign of the main entrance with ADA ramps and stairs, and additional sitework to replace two curb cut vehicular entrances with landscaping in the DC public space.

Due to the improvements in the building, DOEE required a full stormwater management plan for the facility. WM provided further stormwater management planting for bioretention areas and GAR calculations.

The revitalization achieved LEED Gold Certification.

Photos courtesy of: Newman Architects, PC