From the Scene: February 1, 2008

“All the science, I don’t understand…” This plaintive line from Elton John’s “Rocketman” ran through my mind as I looked over the building’s geo-thermal field. Massive trenches, chipped through solid granite, crisscross the area just north of the new Learning Center. As I watched, engineers began thermal conductivity tests on the #1 borehole to determine the rate at which the soil (and rock) surrounding the shaft will dissipate heat. When completed and integrated with the building’s HVAC system, the geo-thermal field will act as a passive heat exchanger, dissipating heat in the summer and adding heat in the winter. Okay, I understand a little.

On top of the building, the massive, boxcar shaped DOAS unit dominates the white football field- sized roof. This “Dedicated Outdoor Air System” is an integral part of the HVAC system, as are the much smaller AC units. Further explanation available from ASHRAE engineers.

Downstairs, on the first floor, sheet rock is being installed, one side at a time. The open vistas of the past are no more as the individual rooms are taking shape. On the second floor, the metal studs, ductwork and rough electrical are in progress. Soon I won’t be able to walk through walls, a Superman-like accomplishment I had come to enjoy.

Out in what had been the front of the building, the “Big Dig” is no more, as the giant concrete culverts which had dominated the yard for so long are finally buried, forming the underground retention system. Instead of the 20 foot deep lake I had envisioned (perfect for bass, carp and other fresh water game fish), there will only be a couple of shallow catch basins with permeable bottoms. Koi pond, anyone?