January 26, 2006 Issue                                               

©2005 The Chestnut Hill Local

CHA begins first phase of construction

Chestnut Hill Academy’s expansion plans.

Thanks to a successful first stage of a comprehensive capital campaign, Chestnut Hill Academy has begun construction on Phase I of its Campus Master Plan. “We have been working on this project for over two years; we are so excited to see our vision becoming a reality. These new facilities are part of our commitment to make CHA the premier boys school in the Philadelphia area” said CHA headmaster Frank Steel.

Phase I includes the renovation and expansion of the Commons (Dining Facility) as well as the construction of a new Physical Education Center. Specifically, Phase I improvements include:

1. Renovation/Construction of Commons Dining Area

Retaining the charm and historically significant architecture of CHA’s Frank Miles Day-designed Commons, our dining facility will enjoy a full renovation with major enhancements to provide additional seating and food service for our students, expanded reception facilities, and new kitchen and food court areas. The refurbished space will include enhanced acoustics and state-of-the-art lighting to energize the current area and create a more enjoyable environment to host individual and community events and as well as a suitable forum to honor special guests.

2. Construction of a Physical Education Center

Our Physical Education program will benefit from the complete facelift entailed in these improvements. Renovations include a larger, brand new gymnasium offering expanded spectator seating, improved acoustics, and a new technologically advanced urethane floor suitable for both athletic and community events. The new facility will also provide a new lobby and Hall of Fame, where the school will proudly display banners, trophies, honors, and awards.

The renovation and expansion of this community space is expected to be ready for the opening of the 2006-07 school year.

Phase II of this campaign will focus on replacing the Kingsley Gym with an expanded athletic Field House. This project will provide state-of-the-art fitness and athletic facilities for CHA. Phase III will provide a new Science and Technology Center, including an Upper School robotics lab, new computer work spaces, and larger technologically advanced science labs and classrooms.