Spanning 18 months and involving numerous challenges, the modernization initiative for Hathaway Brown has showcased the broad range of expertise and versatility exemplified by Harrington Electric Co. professionals.
The monumental project was part of a larger $18 million modernization initiative for Hathaway Brown, a prestigious all-girls school in Ohio known for its academic excellence. Work involved expansion and renovation of a new, modernized wing added to the 50-year-old Primary School for the purpose of updating the infrastructure and expanding the space while incorporating modern technology designed to foster the next generation of learning and development.
Specifically, the renovation and expansion involved adding a 
three-story, 12,000-square-foot extension to the south end of the building, designed to increase classroom space and enhance the adjoining library and admissions office.
In addition to the supporting the structural expansion component of the project, the renovation included comprehensive upgrades to essential systems such as electrical, security, and technology. The Harrington team was responsible for designing and installing an upgraded fire alarm system, fiber optic upgrades, and advanced security, access and surveillance systems to safeguard and modernize the infrastructure, while updating an electrical room and constructing a new on-site substation.
To power the substation, the team installed a vault on South Park and bored a four-inch pathway from the vault to the new electrical room, winding up and around existing underground drain pipes and beneath a children’s playground on the campus, to the newly installed substation. Then the crew coordinated with the utility company and third-party testing teams to ensure a smooth transfer of power while minimizing the impact on the school’s operation.
Lighting and electrical systems were also modernized as part of the project. Despite supply chain issues that sometimes delayed the scheduled arrival of lighting fixtures, the project team remained adaptable, sometimes having to install fixtures after ceilings had already been put in place.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was that all work had to be carried out while the school remained fully operational and school life remained active. This meant careful coordination between contractors, administrators and engineers to ensure minimal disruption to daily school activities.
The Harrington Electric team was led by site foreman, Dave Ross, supported by a crew of highly skilled apprentices and journeymen. Project managers Rich Harrold (telecommunications manager) and Jerry Strand (vice president of electrical construction) oversaw key facets of the project and played crucial roles in ensuring that everything from fiber optic installations to the electrical system upgrades proceeded smoothly.
The Hathaway Brown Primary School renovation and addition is a testament to what can be achieved through careful planning, collaboration and flexibility. Despite a myriad of challenges, including working within a fully operational school, supply chain delays, and evolving project designs, the team succeeded in staying on schedule and delivering a space ready for the next era of education.
Site Foreman, Dave Ross, stands by a newly installed 13.2kv substation.
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