Outstanding Architectural Engineering Project

The Washington Elementary School Reconstruction project spans approximately 4.25 acres and is situated in Santa Ana, California. The site is bordered by Anahurst Place to the north, Warner Avenue to the south, Flower Street to the west, and residential housing to the east. As the flagship elementary Visual and Performing Arts Academy for Santa Ana Unified School District, this project focused on addressing the unique needs of both the arts programs and the surrounding community. Through collaboration with stakeholders, the design team created a site master plan that honors the character of Santa Ana's Memorial Park neighborhood while supporting educational goals. Key objectives of fostering connection and creativity were realized with the central Community Promenade, which links the campus to the broader community, and by transforming campus buildings into vibrant canvases for local art. The design seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering an environment that celebrates education, play, and the arts. Civil engineers were integral to the site planning and development, ensuring proper grading and stormwater management while incorporating bioretention basins for on-site water treatment. Their efforts also contributed to replacing parking areas with sustainable landscapes that help mitigate urban heat island effects.