Planning Phase

Design Phase

Construction Phase

Complete

Summer 2020 Renovations

General Contract Budget: $2,097,777
Mechanical Contract Budget: $904,000
Plumbing Contract Budget: $1,695,000
Electrical Contract Budget: $787,000

BOE Approval Date: 4/30/20

Previous Updates

Previous Project Updates

  • 1/20/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the second, fourth, and fifth floors.  The installation of additional security cameras continues on the fifth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the first and concourse floors.
  • 1/17/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.  Installation of locker number is ongoing throughout the building.
  • 1/16/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the third floor and security cameras continues on the sixth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.
  • 1/15/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Programming of the new fire alarm system began today.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the third, fourth, and fifth floors.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/14/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the second and fifth floors.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor. Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/13/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Painting of the lockers began on the fifth floor. Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the fourth floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/10/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/9/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues on the concourse level. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/8/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning began.
  • 1/7/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the 4th floor.
  • 1/6/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Locker repair continues on the 4th floor.  Fire alarm work continues on the concourse level and the boiler room.
  • 1/3/20 – Construction continues as planned. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Installation of fire alarm devices continues in the boiler room.
  • 1/2/20 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of the auditorium scaffolding is complete and cleaning is underway. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/27/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/26/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras began on the 2nd and 5th floors.
  • 12/24/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/23/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of unit ventilators is complete on the 6th floor.  Removal of scaffolding began in the auditorium.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the 15th Street entrance continues.  Training on kitchen equipment was completed.
  • 12/20/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems continues on the concourse level.
  • 12/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems began on the concourse level.
  • 12/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby and the 15th Street entrance continues.
  • 12/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Painting of  the gym continues.
  • 12/16/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The installation and repair of lockers continues on the 4th floor.  The reinstallation of the auditorium lights and speakers continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby continues.
  • 12/13/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  The installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse and basement levels.
  • 12/12/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.  Abatement of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/11/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  The freight elevator renovation continues.
  • 12/10/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/9/19 – Construction continues as planned. Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level. Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. The kitchen has passed final health department inspection. Painting of the west side of the gym began today.
  • 12/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection continues. Prep for painting the west side of the gym continues.
  • 12/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection began. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 12/3/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Installation/repair of lockers on the 2nd floor is on going. Prep for painting the west side of the gym started.
  • 12/2/19 – Construction continues as planned. Installation/repair of lockers on the 5th floor is on going. The freight elevator renovation continues. Completion of walls on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete.
  • 11/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building. Ceiling repairs continue on the 5th floor. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 11/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of the ductwork in the SLA commons is 90% complete. The measurement and order of the final connection was completed this week. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete today. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building.
  • 11/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement passed.
  • 11/20/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement will be completed tonight.
  • 11/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor continues.  Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night.
  • 11/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor has begun today.
  • 11/15/19 – Construction continues as planned. The heating plant is operational and providing heat to the building. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor commons area.
  • 11/13/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is flushing the piping for the heating system. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor common area.
  • 11/12/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is filling the heating system in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Signage for Ben Franklin is being installed on Broad Street.
  • 11/7/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Maintenance completed repairs to existing boilers and are scheduling the state inspection.
  • 11/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling and floor preparation for the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues.
  • 11/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement was completed. Abatement of the ceiling began today
  • 11/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Floor preparation for Ben Franklin 6th floor begins tonight.
  • 11/1/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Locker installation on the entire 5th floor has begun.
  • 10/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. The plumber continues to install sinks in the SLA 4th floor science labs. Shower and eyewash stations were completed in the SLA 5th floor science labs.
  • 10/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Lockers were delivered, installation began today and will continue until completed.
  • 10/29/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement began today. The SLA 6th floor CTE equipment has been set. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/28/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. Contractor is setting the SLA 6th floor CTE equipment. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 75% cleaned. CTE equipment to be set next week.
  • 10/24/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 50% cleaned.
  • 10/23/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Fume hood was installed in the 5th floor SLA Science Lab.
  • 10/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation began today. Punch list work continues on floors 3 through 5.
  • 10/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor remobilized today to complete piping in the boiler room needed for heating.
  • 10/18/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final clearances were received for boiler room asbestos abatement air sampling. Results are posted below. Boiler room construction activities will resume on Monday.
  • 10/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final air sampling for asbestos abatement is being conducted in the boiler room.
  • 10/16/19 – The COO released this memo to Ben Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy Staff and Families, containing updates on the project.
  • 10/16/19 – Construction continues as planned. Air conditioning units were installed on the 2nd floor. Lights continued to be installed on the 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/15/19 – Construction resumed as planned. Marker boards and tack boards are being hung. Painting took place in the first floor commons area and the SLA 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/14/19 – Environmental test results have confirmed the first floor SLA commons area and the basement area are free of hazardous materials. Results for the commons area were received on 10/7 and those for the basement area on 10/11. Construction in these areas has resumed. Abatement in the boiler room is still under way. We expect to receive results by 10/20.
  • 10/10/19 – On Thursday, October 10 the School District of Philadelphia announced a temporary relocation plan for Benjamin Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy (SLA).
    Ben Franklin students and staff will return to school on Monday, October 14 at 926 W. Sedgley Avenue, the former site for Khepera Charter School. Science Leadership Academy is pursuing a Center City campus model which will have classrooms at School District headquarters (440 N. Broad St.) and the Rodeph Shalom synagogue (615 N. Broad St.)  Learn more here.

Current Updates

Project Updates

  • 2/18/20 – All air quality testing came back favorable for re-occupancy, and the shared campus re-opened on 2/18.
  • 2/14/20 – Final cleaning was completed throughout the building.
  • 2/13/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of marker boards on the 6th floor was completed.
  • 2/12/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping was completed.
  • 2/11/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping continues.
  • 2/10/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping began.
  • 2/7/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  Fire alarm testing and certification was completed.  All 120 air sampling results were received and have passed requirements.  Results have been posted to the website.
  • 2/6/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.
  • 2/5/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.
  • 2/4/20 – Asbestos air monitoring is taking place on the 3rd, 2nd, 1st, and basement floors in conjunction with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers.  Results are expected by Monday, 2/10/20.
  • 2/3/20 – Asbestos air monitoring is taking place on the 6th, 5th, and 4th floors in conjunction with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers.  Results are expected by Monday, 2/10/20.
  • 1/31/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.
  • 1/30/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the fourth floor.
  • 1/29/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware and missing grill installation is taking place throughout the building.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the third and fourth floors.
  • 1/28/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware and missing grill installation is taking place throughout the building.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/27/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware installation is taking place throughout the building.  Insulation replacement and repair is taking place on the first and sixth floors.
  • 1/24/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the third and fourth floors.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/23/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the fourth floor.  Touch up paint continues on the first floor.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/22/20 – Construction continues as planned. Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second and fourth floors.  Installation of flooring on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/21/20 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator has passed state inspection.  Installation of replacement gas turrets began.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second floor.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.

Previous Updates

Previous Project Updates

  • 1/20/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the second, fourth, and fifth floors.  The installation of additional security cameras continues on the fifth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the first and concourse floors.
  • 1/17/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.  Installation of locker number is ongoing throughout the building.
  • 1/16/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the third floor and security cameras continues on the sixth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.
  • 1/15/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Programming of the new fire alarm system began today.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the third, fourth, and fifth floors.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/14/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the second and fifth floors.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor. Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/13/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Painting of the lockers began on the fifth floor. Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the fourth floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/10/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/9/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues on the concourse level. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/8/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning began.
  • 1/7/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the 4th floor.
  • 1/6/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Locker repair continues on the 4th floor.  Fire alarm work continues on the concourse level and the boiler room.
  • 1/3/20 – Construction continues as planned. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Installation of fire alarm devices continues in the boiler room.
  • 1/2/20 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of the auditorium scaffolding is complete and cleaning is underway. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/27/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/26/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras began on the 2nd and 5th floors.
  • 12/24/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/23/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of unit ventilators is complete on the 6th floor.  Removal of scaffolding began in the auditorium.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the 15th Street entrance continues.  Training on kitchen equipment was completed.
  • 12/20/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems continues on the concourse level.
  • 12/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems began on the concourse level.
  • 12/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby and the 15th Street entrance continues.
  • 12/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Painting of  the gym continues.
  • 12/16/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The installation and repair of lockers continues on the 4th floor.  The reinstallation of the auditorium lights and speakers continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby continues.
  • 12/13/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  The installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse and basement levels.
  • 12/12/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.  Abatement of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/11/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  The freight elevator renovation continues.
  • 12/10/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/9/19 – Construction continues as planned. Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level. Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. The kitchen has passed final health department inspection. Painting of the west side of the gym began today.
  • 12/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection continues. Prep for painting the west side of the gym continues.
  • 12/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection began. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 12/3/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Installation/repair of lockers on the 2nd floor is on going. Prep for painting the west side of the gym started.
  • 12/2/19 – Construction continues as planned. Installation/repair of lockers on the 5th floor is on going. The freight elevator renovation continues. Completion of walls on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete.
  • 11/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building. Ceiling repairs continue on the 5th floor. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 11/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of the ductwork in the SLA commons is 90% complete. The measurement and order of the final connection was completed this week. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete today. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building.
  • 11/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement passed.
  • 11/20/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement will be completed tonight.
  • 11/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor continues.  Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night.
  • 11/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor has begun today.
  • 11/15/19 – Construction continues as planned. The heating plant is operational and providing heat to the building. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor commons area.
  • 11/13/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is flushing the piping for the heating system. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor common area.
  • 11/12/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is filling the heating system in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Signage for Ben Franklin is being installed on Broad Street.
  • 11/7/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Maintenance completed repairs to existing boilers and are scheduling the state inspection.
  • 11/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling and floor preparation for the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues.
  • 11/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement was completed. Abatement of the ceiling began today
  • 11/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Floor preparation for Ben Franklin 6th floor begins tonight.
  • 11/1/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Locker installation on the entire 5th floor has begun.
  • 10/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. The plumber continues to install sinks in the SLA 4th floor science labs. Shower and eyewash stations were completed in the SLA 5th floor science labs.
  • 10/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Lockers were delivered, installation began today and will continue until completed.
  • 10/29/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement began today. The SLA 6th floor CTE equipment has been set. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/28/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. Contractor is setting the SLA 6th floor CTE equipment. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 75% cleaned. CTE equipment to be set next week.
  • 10/24/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 50% cleaned.
  • 10/23/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Fume hood was installed in the 5th floor SLA Science Lab.
  • 10/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation began today. Punch list work continues on floors 3 through 5.
  • 10/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor remobilized today to complete piping in the boiler room needed for heating.
  • 10/18/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final clearances were received for boiler room asbestos abatement air sampling. Results are posted below. Boiler room construction activities will resume on Monday.
  • 10/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final air sampling for asbestos abatement is being conducted in the boiler room.
  • 10/16/19 – The COO released this memo to Ben Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy Staff and Families, containing updates on the project.
  • 10/16/19 – Construction continues as planned. Air conditioning units were installed on the 2nd floor. Lights continued to be installed on the 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/15/19 – Construction resumed as planned. Marker boards and tack boards are being hung. Painting took place in the first floor commons area and the SLA 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/14/19 – Environmental test results have confirmed the first floor SLA commons area and the basement area are free of hazardous materials. Results for the commons area were received on 10/7 and those for the basement area on 10/11. Construction in these areas has resumed. Abatement in the boiler room is still under way. We expect to receive results by 10/20.
  • 10/10/19 – On Thursday, October 10 the School District of Philadelphia announced a temporary relocation plan for Benjamin Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy (SLA).
    Ben Franklin students and staff will return to school on Monday, October 14 at 926 W. Sedgley Avenue, the former site for Khepera Charter School. Science Leadership Academy is pursuing a Center City campus model which will have classrooms at School District headquarters (440 N. Broad St.) and the Rodeph Shalom synagogue (615 N. Broad St.)  Learn more here.

Current Updates

Project Updates

  • 2/18/20 – All air quality testing came back favorable for re-occupancy, and the shared campus re-opened on 2/18.
  • 2/14/20 – Final cleaning was completed throughout the building.
  • 2/13/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of marker boards on the 6th floor was completed.
  • 2/12/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping was completed.
  • 2/11/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping continues.
  • 2/10/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  The installation of the emergency generator exhaust piping began.
  • 2/7/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.  Fire alarm testing and certification was completed.  All 120 air sampling results were received and have passed requirements.  Results have been posted to the website.
  • 2/6/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.
  • 2/5/20 – Final cleaning continues throughout the building.
  • 2/4/20 – Asbestos air monitoring is taking place on the 3rd, 2nd, 1st, and basement floors in conjunction with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers.  Results are expected by Monday, 2/10/20.
  • 2/3/20 – Asbestos air monitoring is taking place on the 6th, 5th, and 4th floors in conjunction with the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers.  Results are expected by Monday, 2/10/20.
  • 1/31/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.
  • 1/30/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the fourth floor.
  • 1/29/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware and missing grill installation is taking place throughout the building.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the third and fourth floors.
  • 1/28/20 – Construction continues as planned. Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware and missing grill installation is taking place throughout the building.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/27/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Interior cleaning, window cleaning, and moving of furniture continues throughout the building.  Locker hardware installation is taking place throughout the building.  Insulation replacement and repair is taking place on the first and sixth floors.
  • 1/24/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the third and fourth floors.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/23/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the fourth floor.  Touch up paint continues on the first floor.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/22/20 – Construction continues as planned. Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second and fourth floors.  Installation of flooring on the concourse level continues.
  • 1/21/20 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator has passed state inspection.  Installation of replacement gas turrets began.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second floor.  Installation of flooring and painting on the concourse level continues.

Previous Updates

Previous Project Updates

  • 1/20/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the second, fourth, and fifth floors.  The installation of additional security cameras continues on the fifth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the first and concourse floors.
  • 1/17/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the second floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.  Installation of locker number is ongoing throughout the building.
  • 1/16/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the third floor and security cameras continues on the sixth floor.  Installation of additional flooring continues on the concourse floor.
  • 1/15/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Programming of the new fire alarm system began today.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the third, fourth, and fifth floors.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/14/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops continues on the second and fifth floors.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor. Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/13/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Painting of the lockers began on the fifth floor. Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the fourth floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/10/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Installation of additional data drops and security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/9/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues on the concourse level. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning continues.
  • 1/8/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  Installation of additional security cameras continues on the first floor.  Building wide cleaning began.
  • 1/7/20 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Fire alarm continues in the concourse and basement levels.  The installation of additional data drops continues on the 4th floor.
  • 1/6/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Refurbishment of the freight elevator continues.  Locker repair continues on the 4th floor.  Fire alarm work continues on the concourse level and the boiler room.
  • 1/3/20 – Construction continues as planned. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Installation of fire alarm devices continues in the boiler room.
  • 1/2/20 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of the auditorium scaffolding is complete and cleaning is underway. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Paint of the gymnasium continues. Installation of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/27/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras continues on the 5th floor. Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/26/19 – Construction continues as planned. Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium. Installation of additional security cameras began on the 2nd and 5th floors.
  • 12/24/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Removal of scaffolding continues in the auditorium.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/23/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Installation of unit ventilators is complete on the 6th floor.  Removal of scaffolding began in the auditorium.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the 15th Street entrance continues.  Training on kitchen equipment was completed.
  • 12/20/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems continues on the concourse level.
  • 12/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and installation of new floor tile continues on the concourse level.  Demolition of the old fire alarm systems began on the concourse level.
  • 12/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby and the 15th Street entrance continues.
  • 12/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Painting of  the gym continues.
  • 12/16/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The installation and repair of lockers continues on the 4th floor.  The reinstallation of the auditorium lights and speakers continues.  Repair and refinishing of the terrazzo floor at the Broad Street lobby continues.
  • 12/13/19 – Construction continues as planned.  The freight elevator renovation continues.  The installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse and basement levels.
  • 12/12/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting of the gymnasium continues.  Abatement of floor tile on the concourse level continues.
  • 12/11/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Cleaning of classrooms on the 6th floor continues.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  The freight elevator renovation continues.
  • 12/10/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level.  Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.  Paint of the gymnasium continues.
  • 12/9/19 – Construction continues as planned. Abatement of floor tile and the installation of fire alarm devices continues on the concourse level. Painting and repair of the ceilings continues on the 5th floor.
  • 12/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. The kitchen has passed final health department inspection. Painting of the west side of the gym began today.
  • 12/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection continues. Prep for painting the west side of the gym continues.
  • 12/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Cleaning of the kitchen in preparation of the final health department inspection began. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 12/3/19 – Construction continues as planned. The freight elevator renovation continues. Installation/repair of lockers on the 2nd floor is on going. Prep for painting the west side of the gym started.
  • 12/2/19 – Construction continues as planned. Installation/repair of lockers on the 5th floor is on going. The freight elevator renovation continues. Completion of walls on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete.
  • 11/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building. Ceiling repairs continue on the 5th floor. Flooring installation continues at night on the Ben Franklin 6th floor.
  • 11/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The installation of the ductwork in the SLA commons is 90% complete. The measurement and order of the final connection was completed this week. The repair of the cafeteria floor is complete today. The installation of window stops and guards are ongoing throughout the building.
  • 11/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement passed.
  • 11/20/19 – Construction continues as planned. Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues. Repair of the cafeteria floor continues. Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night. Final air sampling for the auditorium abatement will be completed tonight.
  • 11/19/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor continues.  Installation of flooring on the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues at night.
  • 11/18/19 – Construction continues as planned.  Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues.  Ductwork installation in the SLA commons area continues.  Repair of the cafeteria floor has begun today.
  • 11/15/19 – Construction continues as planned. The heating plant is operational and providing heat to the building. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor commons area.
  • 11/13/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is flushing the piping for the heating system. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. New duct is being installed over the SLA 1st floor common area.
  • 11/12/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor is filling the heating system in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Signage for Ben Franklin is being installed on Broad Street.
  • 11/7/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling continues. Maintenance completed repairs to existing boilers and are scheduling the state inspection.
  • 11/6/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Abatement of the auditorium ceiling and floor preparation for the Ben Franklin 6th floor continues.
  • 11/5/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement was completed. Abatement of the ceiling began today
  • 11/4/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Floor preparation for Ben Franklin 6th floor begins tonight.
  • 11/1/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Locker installation on the entire 5th floor has begun.
  • 10/31/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. The plumber continues to install sinks in the SLA 4th floor science labs. Shower and eyewash stations were completed in the SLA 5th floor science labs.
  • 10/30/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement continues. Lockers were delivered, installation began today and will continue until completed.
  • 10/29/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. The installation of scaffolding for the auditorium ceiling abatement began today. The SLA 6th floor CTE equipment has been set. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/28/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. Contractor is setting the SLA 6th floor CTE equipment. Electrical connections to be started this week.
  • 10/25/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 75% cleaned. CTE equipment to be set next week.
  • 10/24/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation continues. SLA 6th floor is 50% cleaned.
  • 10/23/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Fume hood was installed in the 5th floor SLA Science Lab.
  • 10/22/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor continues to complete piping in the boiler room. Auditorium ceiling abatement preparation began today. Punch list work continues on floors 3 through 5.
  • 10/21/19 – Construction continues as planned. The mechanical contractor remobilized today to complete piping in the boiler room needed for heating.
  • 10/18/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final clearances were received for boiler room asbestos abatement air sampling. Results are posted below. Boiler room construction activities will resume on Monday.
  • 10/17/19 – Construction continues as planned. Final air sampling for asbestos abatement is being conducted in the boiler room.
  • 10/16/19 – The COO released this memo to Ben Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy Staff and Families, containing updates on the project.
  • 10/16/19 – Construction continues as planned. Air conditioning units were installed on the 2nd floor. Lights continued to be installed on the 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/15/19 – Construction resumed as planned. Marker boards and tack boards are being hung. Painting took place in the first floor commons area and the SLA 6th floor. Abatement work continues in the boiler room. Gas lines are being installed for the 4th floor SLA science labs.
  • 10/14/19 – Environmental test results have confirmed the first floor SLA commons area and the basement area are free of hazardous materials. Results for the commons area were received on 10/7 and those for the basement area on 10/11. Construction in these areas has resumed. Abatement in the boiler room is still under way. We expect to receive results by 10/20.
  • 10/10/19 – On Thursday, October 10 the School District of Philadelphia announced a temporary relocation plan for Benjamin Franklin High School and Science Leadership Academy (SLA).
    Ben Franklin students and staff will return to school on Monday, October 14 at 926 W. Sedgley Avenue, the former site for Khepera Charter School. Science Leadership Academy is pursuing a Center City campus model which will have classrooms at School District headquarters (440 N. Broad St.) and the Rodeph Shalom synagogue (615 N. Broad St.)  Learn more here.

Image Gallery

Auditorium.
Gym with divider.
Locker room.
Outdoor furniture.

All previous asbestos testing reports — including the School District of Philadelphia’s final clearance inspection reports verifying all work areas were visual clean, air monitoring was performed, and the results were within the re-occupancy standard — are available within the final report with all findings below.

New information and test results will be posted on this site daily or as often as new information becomes available.

Asbestos Testing and Air Monitoring

DateResults
02/04/20PFT Final Results
02/04/20TEM Final Results
02/03/20PFT Final Results
02/03/20TEM Final Results
11/26/19Air Sample
11/21/19Auditorium Air Sample
10/27/19West Fan Room
10/26/19East Fan Room
10/17/19Final Boiler Room Air Sample
10/11/19Basement Area
10/09/19Basement Area Results
10/09/19Room 20 & Basement Hall
10/09/19ROTC Room 18 Results
10/07/191st Floor Commons Area
10/02/19Test Results Throughout Building
10/01/19Test Results Throughout Building
09/29/191st Floor Diagnostic Air Sample
09/28/19Boiler Room Air Sample
09/27/19Basement Asbestos Abatement Report
09/19/19Final Asbestos Abatement Report

Dust Control Measures

DateResults
02/05/20Dust Monitoring
01/27/20Dust Monitoring
01/21/20Dust Monitoring
01/14/20Dust Monitoring
01/07/20Dust Monitoring
01/02/20Dust Monitoring
12/16/19Dust Monitoring
12/09/19Dust Monitoring
12/02/19Dust Monitoring
11/25/19Dust Monitoring
11/4/19Dust Monitoring
10/29/19Dust Monitoring
10/21/19Dust Monitoring
10/07/19Dust Monitoring
09/30/19Dust Monitoring