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Marple Construction

Now underway: The Marple Education Center Facilities Project
(December 2024-June 2026)

The Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) Board of Directors and Administration began planning the Marple Facilities Project as part of a larger organizational facilities plan. After extensive deliberation and a Needs Assessment, the scope of the project took shape in July 2023. This project is designed to enhance DCIU’s educational services while improving the overall functionality of the Marple Education Center site.

Key aspects of the project:

New Construction

The Marple Facilities Project includes new construction that will enhance the capacity of DCIU’s educational offerings. One of the primary features is the construction of a new building for the Practical Nursing Program (PNP). This addition will allow the PNP, which has seen expanded enrollment over the past three years, to operate in a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the needs of future healthcare professionals. The new facility will provide a modern learning environment, ensuring nursing students are well-prepared for their careers in the healthcare industry.

In addition to the new PNP building, three new structures will be added to improve the operations of the Marple Education Center:

  • Parent & Family Waiting Area: A comfortable and accessible waiting area will be created for parents and families of Early Intervention students who visit the center for diagnostic evaluations and programming.
     
  • Receiving Area: A designated receiving area for food services and deliveries will improve operational efficiency and streamline logistics.
     
  • Storage Area: Additional storage space will be built to accommodate the growing needs of the center.

These new spaces will significantly enhance the center’s functionality and better serve students, families, and staff.

 

Exterior Improvements

The Marple Facilities Project also includes a series of exterior improvements designed to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the site. These improvements include:

  • Perimeter Fence: A new fence will be installed along both the west and east sides of the property, enhancing security and aesthetics.
     
  • Reconfigured Parking: The parking area will be restructured to add more parking spaces and improve traffic flow, making drop-offs and pick-ups easier for parents and staff.
     
  • Expanded Playground: The school-age playground’s footprint will be increased to provide more space for outdoor activities.
     
  • New Signage: Updated signage will be installed to enhance visibility and orientation for visitors and staff.
     
  • Storm Water Management System: Improved storm water management system will be implemented to control and direct rainwater runoff to prevent flooding, erosion, and water pollution.

These exterior improvements are designed to make the Marple Education Center a more welcoming, functional, and sustainable environment for students, families, and staff.

 

Interior Renovations

The Marple Facilities Project also includes a series of interior renovations that were designed to modernize the facility, enhance accessibility and functionality, and support the wide range of programs housed at the Marple Education Center.

  • Repurposing of PNP Space: The area previously occupied by the PNP will be remodeled to accommodate Early Intervention classrooms, ensuring a more tailored environment for young learners.
  • Handicap Accessibility: The stage will be reconfigured to improve handicap accessibility, promoting inclusivity for students and staff.
  •  New Conference Rooms and Offices: Additional conference rooms and offices will be added to support administrative functions and provide meeting spaces for staff and families.
  • Upgraded HVAC Systems: New, energy-efficient HVAC systems will be installed to improve overall energy efficiency and indoor air quality, contributing to a more comfortable environment for students and staff.

These renovations will not only modernize the interior of the facility but also create a more accessible, efficient, and comfortable environment that supports the diverse needs of students, staff, and visitors.

 

Benefits of the Marple Education Center Facilities Project for DCIU Programs

This facilities project will enhance the quality of educational programs and provide a modern and efficient environment for students across DCIU’s diverse offerings.

  • Practical Nursing Program (PNP): Over the past three years, the PNP has experienced expanded enrollment. The new building will provide a state-of-the-art facility specifically designed to support the hands-on training and education of nursing students. This upgraded environment will support the preparation for students who plan to enter the healthcare industry with the skills and knowledge needed for success.
     
  • Early Intervention Expansion: The new space created for the Early Intervention program will enhance service delivery for young children, providing a more conducive learning environment.
     
  • Low Incidence School-Age Program: The program will benefit from both the expansion of interior classroom spaces and the addition of a new and expanded playground, offering students more opportunities for outdoor activities in a safe and supportive environment.

Regular updates, including construction progress and any potential impact on services, will be posted on this page.

 

Updates 

January 6, 2025:
The Marple Education Center construction project is underway. Crews arrived this week to begin the demolition and tree removal to pave the way for the new project.

Regular updates, including construction progress and any potential impact on services, will be posted on this page.

 

Questions? Please send any questions or concerns to MarpleConstruction@dciu.org

Thank you to DCIU staff, students, and families for their patience and cooperation during our renovations as we work to improve and enhance our spaces to create accessible, modern welcoming, functional, and sustainable environments for our students, families, and staff.