A special need, an unconventional facility, and a unique project challenge for Benchmark Construction.

Benchmark has built more than two dozen educational facilities but seldom have we been as intimately involved with or committed to the goals of a project as we were with the Janus School.

Janus was founded in 1991 to provide children who have special learning disorders with a program of education that will allow them to operate effectively in the "real world."

Benchmark was selected as the contractor for the Janus design-build team and from the outset we could see that this was a truly unique situation. The Janus School´s learning systems were unconventional and thus required a facility very uncharacteristic of traditional schools. Spaces, furnishings and equipment had to enhance intense personal interaction. The building also had to accommodate extensive observation of activities, but be designed in a manner that was positive and constructive. Also required were individual reading spaces, small group activity areas, traditional library and computer resources and staff accommodations.

The preliminary building designs indicated a cost well in excess of the School´s finances, but Benchmark´s preconstruction team went to work and developed creative alternatives and options which allowed the school to meet its special teaching requirements, yet stay within the projected budget.

Benchmark management also became personally involved in the project and participated in the capital fund-raising campaign. In addition, when the project encountered unanticipated costs, Benchmark staff and field personnel volunteered time and labor on weekends to help offset them?another demonstration of our commitment to the School´s mission.

The new $1.7 million Janus School, twice the size of the original facility, opened in August of 1997 and has already gained national notoriety for educational innovation and excellence. At Benchmark, we are tremendously proud to have contributed to the success of the project.

Location: Mount Joy, PA

Design Professionals: The Kostecky Group

Total SF: 16,200

Value: $ 1.7 million

Awards:  1998 Mid Atlantic Builders Exchange CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD

1998 ABC - Keystone Chapter AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

1998 ABC National EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION AWARD

Services Provided: Preconstruction/Construction Management and General Construction Services

"Benchmark showed me that their organization functions as a team player, communicates openly and effectively, and exceeds performance expectations." John A. Boecker, AIA Kulp Boecker Architects, P.C. (formerly with The Kostecky Group)