About this project

Project Description:  This project involves MEP/FS engineering design for a new high school building, housing approximately 2,000 students, for the Lancaster City School District. MEP/FS systems were designed in accordance with the latest version of the Ohio Building Codes.

RDFA worked with the Architect on Master Planning for the High School in 2021.  Design began in January 2021. HVAC design involved Variable Refrigerant Flow with Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) and Variable Air Volume (VAV) units with reheat. This project was designed and constructed utilizing the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system.

Design Completed: 2022
Size: 365,000 SF (Renovation)
Construction Completed: 2026
Delivery Method: CMR
Cost: $113,000,000

Scope of Services:  RDFA provided MEP/FS design for this project, and Construction Administration in support of the Architect.

HVAC design includes variable-air-volume (VAV) system with the air-handling units; high-efficiency boilers heating water boilers; indoor central-station air-handling units; water-to-water heat pumps; gymnasium air-handling units; electric-fillers; and direct-digital temperature controls. HVAC air and water systems will be tested, adjusted, and balanced.

The Plumbing and fire-suppression designs include wet-pipe sprinkler systems; domestic hot- and cold-water piping systems with recirculating pumps; interior sanitary and storm piping systems; site and interior natural gas piping; gas-fired and electrical water heaters; and low-flow plumbing fixtures.

Electrical design includes low-voltage transformers; switchboards; panelboards; interior, emergency, and exterior/site lighting; lighting controls, including manual dimmers, occupancy sensors, and photoelectric switches; transient voltage surge suppression; gas-fired emergency generators; and addressable fire alarm systems.

Team Members:  Gregory C. Topp - MEP/FS Project Manager; Mechanical Engineer; Sanjay K. Sahni - Electrical Engineer; Markus Lott - Plumbing Designer; Christi Jewell - Electrical Designer, Jennifer Leshnock – Lighting Designer.

Owner: Lancaster City Schools/OFCC
Type: Academic
Date Completed: 2026
Architect: Schorr Architects, Inc.