Terraset Elementary School was built in 1977 as an underground learning center. The 1970's oil crisis spawned its rare design using nature soil and solar panels to reduce energy consumption.
Downey & Scott provided cost estimating services for this unique underground elementary school that is receiving a 69,000 GSF renovation and 34,500 GSF addition. Total hard construction costs with allowances and additional Storm Water Management requirements was $24,269,000.
Several additions will be added (above ground) as well as new pedestrian bridges from the parking area to the new entry area for the building. Much of the earth covering the existing building will be removed to correct the leakage problems and possible structural issues that resulted from the recent 2011 earthquake.