K-8 Expansion and Renovations at Saint Leo
Saint Leo the Great Catholic School partnered with Warfel for the K-8 Expansion and Renovations project in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The 40,000 square foot project included a 12,000 square foot addition and renovations throughout the existing school. Because Saint Leo had accepted students based on the expansion plans, the project had an accelerated six-month schedule. With students returning in the fall, the project team organized the work into three phases to keep progress focused and coordinated. Each phase had to account for school activity, summer access, and asbestos abatement timing.
Starting with the Addition and Porte Cochere
Phase 1 focused on the rear of the existing building, where Warfel completed a two story, 12,000 square foot addition. This portion of the project added eight classrooms and a new elevator, providing greater accessibility to all levels of the school. Since renovation work had to wait until summer break because of asbestos abatement, the addition and porte cochere moved forward during the final months of school.
This early phase gave the project a clear starting point before interior renovation areas became available. It also allowed work to continue while the school year was still underway, keeping the accelerated six-month schedule in motion before the larger summer renovation effort began.
Coordinating Classrooms, Commons, and Facade Work
Phase 2 focused on sub-level renovations that added four classrooms and a middle school commons area. Then, Phase 3 addressed more than 28,000 square feet throughout the existing one story building. This portion included nine classrooms, the lobby, corridors, offices, and the gym. In addition, the project included upgrades to the mechanical, electrical, and sprinkler systems. Facade work included a new canopy, storefront windows, and a structural steel facelift to update the 1970s appearance.
Managing the K-8 Expansion and Renovations Sequence
To keep the accelerated schedule moving, Warfel divided the work into eight sub phases. This approach allowed abatement to occur in smaller areas before construction began in each completed section. As each area cleared, crews moved into the next section without waiting for one large release. Therefore, the renovation work could move through the school as each area became ready. The sequence connected abatement and construction in a way that helped preserve the overall schedule.
A Continued Partnership
The completed K-8 Expansion and Renovations project added classrooms, a middle school commons area, and improved accessibility. It also updated building systems and refreshed the facade. The work created new space for students to learn and grow for years to come. After completion, Saint Leo invited Warfel back in 2023 to complete a multipurpose event space addition. That return work reflects the trust established through the school expansion and renovation process.
