JHA Companies teamed with the Wayne Highlands School District to construct a 2,500 sq. ft. aquaponics greenhouse at the Honesdale High School campus. The project included constructing a permanent steel greenhouse structure with polycarbonate glazing divided into two spaces: a head house for entry and storage, and the growing space for a high-production aquaponics system, an education aquaponics system, and a traditional soil system. JHA provided design and support from schematic design through post-construction project close out.

The Client secured financing through USDA’s rural development loan program which set the requirements for the design development and construction process. The greenhouse building and its operational components were premanufactured, intended for institutional use. JHA worked with the administration, teachers, and facilities management staff to determine desired program and size. Design included evolving the program into a layout that was ADA and international code compliant for an educational facility, preparing a preliminary foundation and slab design based on limited information, and determining mechanical, plumbing, and electrical needs, fixtures, and equipment. Once a final design was reached, JHA provided construction documents, bidding/negation, construction, and post-construction services.

One of the challenges during design development was establishing the design and specifications without selecting a greenhouse vendor in order to ensure a fair and cost-effective bid. In order to achieve the client’s desired deliverable and obtain building permits, JHA had to be creative and thorough in executing an inclusive yet detailed design and bid package.