East Prairie School District 73 New PreK-8 School

Successful referendum outcome yields new elementary school

Gilbane served as construction manager for the new $47 million elementary school built on the existing school site. The school remained fully operational throughout construction. Working with a citizen task force and hosting numerous town hall meetings, Gilbane was heavily involved with community engagement events regarding safety planning, budget, schedule, phasing, and logistics to prepare the community heading into the vote with a successful outcome.

Project Overview

Traffic issues were improved by incorporating two drop-off areas near the school during drop-off and pick-up
Gilbane partnered with the school district during the referendum to determine five project options
Working with a citizen task force and hosting numerous town hall meetings, Gilbane was heavily involved with community engagement events regarding safety planning, budget, schedule, phasing, and logistics to prepare the community heading into the vote.
Ultimately, the community’s support resulted in a 65% yes vote

“Suffice it to say, we are over the moon, relieved, excited, and ready to get to work! [I] remembered that at the start, we attended an afternoon seminar on successful building projects that you [Derek Ward] had presented with Paul Hanley. Then we called you. You have been such a huge help throughout the whole long year, and your positive, never-fail confidence really sustained us through the clouds of doubt.” 65% yes! What?!”
Mary Kaiser
Board President
East Prairie School District

Quick Stats

Client:
- East Prairie School District 73
Location: Skokie, IL
Architect:
- STR Partners
Size: 125,000 SF
Awards:
- ENR Midwest, Best K-12 Project
- Illinois Association of School Boards, Award of Merit Education Environments Awards