DeWitt & Associates partnered with Springfield Public Schools to deliver the Gymnasium/Music Safe Room Addition to Horace Mann Elementary School, a reinforced structure designed to meet FEMA storm shelter standards while expanding the school’s instructional space. The new addition provides secure refuge for students and staff during severe weather events and functions as additional classroom and multifunctional space.
Constructed with cast-in-place concrete and structural masonry, the storm shelter was engineered for strength and long-term durability. The project included mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems designed to operate independently in emergency situations. High-performance doors and hardware, impact-resistant glazing, and a fully redundant power supply ensure the facility meets strict safety requirements.
The addition was seamlessly tied into the existing building, blending durable finishes and modern classroom features to maintain a cohesive aesthetic throughout the campus. DeWitt coordinated closely with administrators to maintain safety, minimize disruption, and deliver a high-quality facility.
