The existing Davis Creek Elementary School was outdated, in the flood plain, and unsafe based on modern standards. As part of the county’s Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan update, a new school was determined to be a priority, including balancing enrollment across the county by accommodating approximately 100 additional students. Cabell County Schools selected the site for the new Davis Creek Elementary on the former Barboursville Brickyard property, a complex location due to its previous use as a brick manufacturing facility.
The geotechnical investigation of the property identified extensive brick material below grade, which required remediation under the new building. Extensive environmental assessment and reporting under the Voluntary Remediation Program was required to confirm the construction of a school on the property was authorized to proceed by WV DEP. The design team worked diligently with the client’s geotechnical and environmental engineers to develop a plan that included the removal of the brick and import of engineered fill, while meeting the budget identified for the school.
The new school was designed to accommodate 300 students, ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade. The plan features a multi-purpose room to function as a dining room, physical education classroom, assembly space, and event space, featuring a full size basketball court and performance stage. There is a folding glass wall between the media center and dual-use music and art classroom that allows for flexibility to accommodate larger gatherings such as book fairs, academic events, and gatherings. The school is home to the county’s only severe to profound disability classroom, and the design team worked closely with the county’s staff to design a space to fit the needs of students and teachers with that space. The new building sits on a beautiful, private site that provides a connection to nature and will serve the community for years to come.