By Rich Larson, KYMN News
The Reimagine Northfield High School renovation project is approaching a major milestone as final design work concludes and preparations begin for construction to start this summer. Last week during the regular Northfield school board meeting, architect Sal Bagley of Wold Architects & Engineers and construction manager Josh Cooper of Knutson Construction outlined progress on what will be a phased, multi‑year project.
Following the successful passage of the 2024 referendum, design efforts began immediately. Both Bagley and Hillmann referenced the extensive community‑driven planning process that wrapped up last spring, leading into several months of detailed design development. More than 40 user groups participated, contributing to decisions ranging from classroom layouts to material selections. Since October, the team has been immersed in producing the technical construction documents required for bidding.
Those documents will be delivered to Knutson Construction within weeks, launching a bid period that will run through late March. Cooper said interest from contractors is strong, noting that Northfield is entering the market at a fortunate moment with few competing large projects. He said that local contractors are being encouraged to contact the district for bidding information, and Hillmann stressed the importance of having local companies and work on the project.
As Knutson prepares bid packages, the design team continues refining details and coordinating across engineering disciplines. Weekly meetings have addressed everything from structural elements to technology systems, while ongoing phasing discussions ensure construction can occur safely on an active campus.
Bagley said the design reflects several priorities identified by the community planning group, including abundant natural daylight, improved comfort through geothermal heating and cooling, enhanced safety and security features, and increased flexibility in learning spaces. Classroom areas will be organized into departmental “pods,” she said, with shared flexible learning zones, enclosed small‑group rooms, and adaptable furniture. Large spaces such as the media center, commons, and a new lecture hall—now named Raider Hall—will support gatherings of varying sizes.
Construction will begin shortly after school dismisses in June. Early work will focus on relocating utilities and completing critical underground infrastructure. Additions will rise through the 2026–27 school year, with major interior renovation planned for summer 2027. Portions of the project will open in phases, with the full classroom addition targeted for 2028.
Noise and disruption will be minimized through summer‑focused interior work, temporary walls, and adjusted work hours as needed. Dr. Hillmann emphasized that patience will be essential but said the project reflects years of community planning and strong partnerships with Wold and Knutson.
The district will provide regular updates, including construction cameras and monthly newsletters, at northfieldschools.org.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net.
