DPM helps Darien's students get a new start on learning.

Diversified Project Management, Inc. announced that it has completed the relocation of Darien High School to its new $75 million, 328,000 s/f facility at 80 High School Lane in Darien, Conn.

The new Darien High School, which was built on the site adjacent to the old high school, opened its doors on schedule in early September. The seven-building, state-of-the-art educational facility will serve approximately 1,300 students.

Don Geary and Janet Wheeler, project managers at DPM's Hartford office, managed the relocation project. The project, which began in November of 2004, comprised the removal of all the furnishings and equipment from the old high school, the relocation of staff and the delivery and installation of new furniture, fixtures and equipment, totaling almost 7,000 items.

"DPM's work on managing the relocation process and overseeing the installation of all new furniture, fixtures and related equipment was a critical component of the overall project," said Paul T. Engemann, director of facilities and construction.

"Their experience and organizational skills allowed me to focus on many other aspects of the project that I would not have had time for without them. Involving DPM in this important project was one of the best business decisions I made. I've heard nothing but praise from administrators, staff members, maintenance workers, vendors, construction managers and trades contractors alike."

DPM's work included scheduling furniture and equipment installations, conducting move meeting with the faculty and staff and supervising the physical move. Most of the firm's involvement in the project took place between May and August. They closed the project in November.

"This project required a lot of juggling, prioritizing and creative scheduling on our part due to the fact the construction schedule fell behind," said Geary. "Fortunately, we were able to work with everyone involved--construction personnel, school and town personnel and the many vendors--to make sure the project stayed on budget and that the school doors opened on schedule."

Darien High School's new campus includes seven buildings connected in a circle around a central courtyard and surrounded by athletic fields. The new main building has full climate control, all new furnishings and up-to-date technology that creates a physical environment highly conducive to learning. The new facility was designed to foster independent work, collaborative thinking, and connection to educational resources.