Army Corps Awards $24 Million Contract to Wayne Company to Renovate Military Academy

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $24 million contract to of Wayne for the renovation of the existing Middle School facility at the U.S Military Academy at West Point.

Benard Associates is a family-owned construction and renovation company that has worked on a variety of projects for churches, libraries, correctional facilities, and hospitals. According to its Web site, the company was incorporated in Wayne in 1993.
The project involves renovating the original middle school, which was built in 1934 and has been designated a historic landmark, the demolition of a nearly 60-year-old wing, and the construction of a new 31,000 square-foot addition.

The new addition will provide new science, graphic arts, music, and general-purpose classrooms, computer labs, a student information center, and a cafeteria.

As part of the contract, the new facility must meet environmental requirements to be certified as at least LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Buildings Council standards.

Once work is completed, the middle school will be approximately 62,000 square feet in area.
"Our parents, students, and teachers are excited about the ways in which the modernization of this historic facility will further our educational objective to ensure highest achievement for all learners," said Principal David Rudy of West Point Middle School.

The renovation work at the historic 1934 building will update all classrooms, office areas and the auditorium, including improvements to meet existing security and fire safety codes as well as Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

West Point Middle School serves more than 300 students in grades five through eight who are children of service members stationed at West Point. The school is part of the Department of Defense Education Activity.

"We owe it to our service members to provide top-notch facilities for their families while stationed at West Point," said Army Corps New York District Commander Col. John Boulé. "This work will help ensure their children receive a great education while their parents are serving."

Work on the project will be completed in phases, with the addition slated to be completed and ready for students and faculty in time for fall 2013 classes and the renovation and demolition work being completed in 2014.