CTA Begins Work on Net Zero Fort River School

Author

Slice of Construction Team
April 03, 2025

Key Highlights:

  • 105,750-sq-ft, 3-story facility for 575 K-5 students

  • Net Zero design with photovoltaic panels and geothermal system

  • $4.8M in project savings with lowest bid at $73.48 million

  • Opening set for Fall 2026, with site completion by mid-2027

  • Sustainable replacement for Fort River and Wildwood schools

Source: PR Newswire

Notable Quotes:

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"The new school is designed as a Net Zero energy building... aligning with the town's environmental goals."

Donna DiNisco, President at DiNisco Design
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"The project has been meticulously planned to ensure fiscal responsibility."

Paul Bockelman, Town Manager at Town of Amherst
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"Our crews have been working on concrete building foundations... expected to open its doors in the fall of 2026."

Jeff Hazelwood, Principal at CTA Construction Managers

Why This Matters:

This project exemplifies how modern public infrastructure can simultaneously address educational needs and environmental imperatives. Amherst’s Net Zero Fort River Elementary School stands as a benchmark for sustainable school design and fiscal prudence, setting a powerful precedent for future educational facilities across the nation.