The project: Seismically rehabilitate the Mohawk High School Classroom building, a 9,200-sf, single-story facility originally constructed in 1968 for the Marcola School District.

The goal: Strengthen a structurally vulnerable Unreinforced Masonry (URM) building to meet modern seismic safety standards while incorporating upgrades that improve functionality and align the building’s appearance with the rest of the campus.

Project features: Beyond the seismic retrofit, the project scope included several facility enhancements designed to improve both the performance and appearance of the building. IMEG worked with the District to renovate outdated restrooms, rebuild and replace exterior canopies, and reconfigure interior space to accommodate new offices. The entire building exterior was updated as part of the seismic work, including installation of a new roofing system, energy-efficient windows, upgraded doors, and contemporary siding to visually unify the classroom building with the adjacent campus structures. These enhancements not only addressed deferred maintenance issues but also elevated the overall learning environment for students and staff.

Design approach: IMEG partnered with the Marcola School District to develop a comprehensive seismic strengthening plan tailored to the building’s specific vulnerabilities and architectural limitations. The team selected a solution involving new concrete shear walls and exterior steel strong-backs to provide robust lateral support to the URM structure. This approach allowed for maximum structural improvement with minimal disruption to the building’s interior. Due to the site’s location in a 100-year floodplain, the project required close coordination with Lane County to navigate a complex permitting process. Our team led this effort, securing the necessary permits in time to align with the District’s goal of beginning construction immediately after the school year ended.

Project outcome: The completed project delivered a safer, more modern learning space that preserves the building’s core educational function while dramatically improving its resilience and appearance. The chosen seismic strengthening scheme not only enhanced structural performance but also prompted a full revitalization of the building’s exterior. The new canopies, windows, doors, roofing, and siding give the building a clean, contemporary look that now matches the aesthetic of neighboring school facilities. By combining life safety improvements with functional upgrades, IMEG helped the District maximize the value of their investment and extend the usable life of an important campus asset.