Patrick Henry K8 and Recreation Center

When the new Patrick Henry PK-8 School and Recreation Center opened its doors to students in January 2019, it marked the culmination of a collaborative effort between Alexandria City and Alexandria City Public Schools that began almost five years earlier. Patrick Henry’s existing 1950s-era school could not accommodate a student population expected to increase 3-5% every year for the next 10 years, while the adjoining gym and recreation center built by the city in 1973 could not meet the demands of an increasingly active community. The new facility addresses both needs while utilizing the same 13-acre site that has served as a neighborhood hub for more than half a century. This was achieved by earning LEED Silver certification through the USGBC’s LEED for Schools program.

The facilities’ sustainable and high-performance features, including an enhanced thermal envelope, energy efficient lighting, energy efficient HVAC equipment, and low-flow plumbing fixtures are expected to save more than $115,000 in annual energy expenses and more than $11,000 in annual water expenses. Approximately 1,500,000 gallons of water will be conserved each year. The building was commissioned to confirm that energy and water saving features were functioning properly when the building opened.  Additional sustainable design strategies include the prioritization of responsibly sourced products, use of low emitting materials, and diversion of 93 percent of the project’s construction waste from the local landfill.  Low emitting paints, adhesives, sealants, composite wood, and flooring will further improve indoor environmental quality for occupant health.  In addition, 92 percent of all regularly occupied spaces have a direct view to the outdoors.

Patrick Henry PK8 engages the local population outside of school hours by providing the auditorium, gymnasium, and playing fields for community use, as well as through the operation of a community recreation center at the school. The recreation center accommodates the recreational needs of the immediate community, including offering programs to adults and senior citizens during the school day.

Photos by Chris Cunningham Photography