Rain Can’t Stop Progress: Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Center Barnstead Elementary Expansion

Despite the rainy weather, spirits were high this morning as Superintendent Tim Broderick led the official groundbreaking ceremony for the much-anticipated expansion of Center Barnstead Elementary School. The event celebrated the start of a project that will deliver critical facility upgrades and new learning spaces benefiting both students and the broader community.

As the architectural and engineering partner, The Turner Group worked together with school leadership and the community to develop a thoughtful schematic design that reflects both current needs and long-term flexibility. As the project moves into its next phase, we will collaborate closely with Milestone Construction, who will handle construction, and Gordon Bristol, serving as Owner’s Project Manager, to bring the project to completion.

The proposed addition includes a full-size gymnasium, stage and green room, locker rooms, and dedicated spaces for band, music, science, art, and health education. The layout also introduces a new access point, allowing the gymnasium to be used independently during evenings and weekends while maintaining secure separation from the rest of the school.

Additional upgrades throughout the existing facility include:

• Improved insulation, windows, and doors.

• Modernized HVAC and electrical systems.

• Enhanced security features to support student and staff safety.

• A redesigned bus loop to streamline traffic and improve overall site safety.

• A flexible area to accommodate a potential future SAU office.

Superintendent Broderick noted that the district has worked hard to make the most of available funding, using a mix of federal grants, capital reserves, and thoughtful planning to take on essential building upgrades like HVAC systems, new windows, and classroom improvements, all without increasing the tax burden for residents.

The groundbreaking also marked a major milestone for those who’ve been involved in this effort for the long haul. One committee member has been part of the planning process since 1998, a remarkable 26-year commitment that speaks to the persistence and dedication it’s taken to bring this project to life. That kind of steady leadership and follow-through helped turn a long-standing goal into an exciting reality.

With shovels in hand, the morning ceremony kicked off a project built on collaboration, thoughtful design, and a shared focus on creating a safe, inspiring place for students to learn and grow for years to come.