Echo Pacific Begins Construction on New Bio-Tech High School

Specialized Del Lago Academy of Applied Science to prepare for 2013 opening

ESCONDIDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Echo Pacific Construction, Inc. is pleased to announce the commencement of construction on The Del Lago Academy, Campus of Applied Science in Escondido, CA. The construction of the new high school is part of the Escondido Union High School District’s $98 million general obligation bond measure. Proposition T was approved by voters in 2008 for capital improvements and new construction at three high schools and the construction of the new “bio-tech” high school.

“San Diego is one of the meccas for biotechnology, not only in California, but in the nation”

This is the second Lease-Lease Back project between the Escondido Union High School District and Echo Pacific. The Del Lago Academy is a small campus design (400-600 students) and is open to all students in the District. Biotechnology and Medical Sciences will be the academic foundation and will provide specialized career educational opportunities for its students. The school is scheduled to open for the 2013/2014 school year.

“We are thrilled that Escondido Union High School District has chosen Echo Pacific to construct what will be one of the most advanced schools in Southern California with its academic curriculum, its unique campus layout and state-of-the-art technology integration. As a locally based company, it is exciting to be a part of our future from the ground up,” said Chris Rowe, Owner and President of Echo Pacific.

“San Diego is one of the meccas for biotechnology, not only in California, but in the nation,” said District Superintendent Ed Nelson. “We believe our kids should be the workforce of the future.”

The scope of the project will include complete site development, utilities and road extensions. The facility construction encompasses classrooms and general use school buildings and grounds to accommodate the students and staff; academic / vocational / job-training equipment; advanced technology; computer and scientific labs; food service facilities; and space for student-support services.

The efficiency improvements, along with the use of recycled materials, synthetic turf and storm water reduction techniques, will help meet standards set by the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS), a green build rating program for K-12 schools. The program sets design standards aimed at making schools more environmentally sound and educationally functional.

The construction team consists of EUHSD Project Manager Mike Wise; Architect of Record BakerNowicki Design Studio; Echo Pacific field personnel including Superintendent Tommy Ruiz and Project Manager Andrew Rummerfield; and several local specialty contractors.

About Echo Pacific Construction

Echo Pacific Construction, Inc. (www.echopacific.com) is headquartered in Escondido, California, with offices in Merced and San Jose. Constructing and managing projects for both public and private entities throughout Southern California, Echo Pacific has received industry recognition not just for educational accomplishments but for work in other arenas such as fire/safety facilities, parks and recreation, and religious structures. Echo Pacific was awarded a 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2011 “Excellence in Construction Award” by the ABC of San Diego Chapter; and 2009 & 2010 “Build San Diego Award of Merit,” 2010 “Industry Excellence Award Nominee” and 2007 “Contractor of the Year” by the AGC of San Diego.

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