Like many districts across Washington, the Richland School District is growing, and needed more space to accommodate its staff and programs. As part of the District’s successful 2017 bond, they received funding for a new, 41,000 sf Teaching, Learning, and Administrative Center (TLAC). The TLAC consolidates six District departments under one roof, as well as providing support services for teachers, School Board meeting space, and classrooms. The TLAC gives the District the centralized support space it needs to effectively manage other capital projects, that in turn are improving learning environments for students.
FSi was the mechanical engineer for the new TLAC, as a consultant to Design West Architects. FSi provided mechanical and fire protection design. The A/E team worked very closely with the District, and we designed the project with the District’s priorities front and center. Maintainability, for example, was a key concern; we tied the DDC system into the District’s central controls system for easy monitoring. Looking ahead to future projects as the district continues to grow, the building is sited and utilities are placed to make it easier to expand an adjacent school.
We’re excited to contribute to K-12 schools across the state. Spend your rainy-day recess reading about Green Lake Elementary.