STCC announces major window replacement project in Garvey Hall

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College has launched an extensive window replacement project at Garvey Hall, an historic building on campus, thanks to $792,000 in Fair Share funding from the Healey-Driscoll administration.

Built in 1817, Garvey Hall or Building 16 reflects the rich history of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, where STCC is located. The National Park Service, which operates the site, and the Massachusetts Historical Commission approved the window project.

The window replacement effort, managed by STCC’s Facilities Department, combines the need for historic preservation with modern energy efficiency improvements. Facilities and Kuhn Riddle Architects of Amherst worked with the National Park Service to specify a window that met the historic and energy efficient requirements.

The project involves replacing 164 windows on the west side of the building, facing the campus green. This work ensures the new windows meet both historic design requirements and contemporary energy efficiency standards, aligning with Massachusetts Executive Order 594, which emphasizes reducing energy consumption in public buildings. The Executive Order establishes policies, programs and strategies to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from state government operations and enhance resiliency at state owned campuses such as STCC.

This project is long overdue. Some of the old windows were in poor condition. Debra Avery, Senior Director of Facilities at STCC

Funding for the project comes from the state Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) through the state’s Fair Share Amendment funds. The allocation of these funds specifically supports projects aimed at energy efficiency, making this effort a perfect match for the college’s needs.

“This project is long overdue,” said Debra Avery, Senior Director of Facilities at STCC. “Some of the old windows were in poor condition. Leaks, dust and debris were common issues. Those working in spaces with new windows will experience a more comfortable and quieter environment.”

The phased project began on Dec. 9, 2024, and is expected to be completed by early February 2025. Contractors started at the north end of the building, working in groups of nine windows at a time, and progressed toward the south end. This approach minimized disruption to the campus community while maintaining steady progress. The project included demolition, installation and painting, all carried out in an occupied building – a logistical challenge that was met with careful planning and execution by Gena Lomelin, the project manager.

STCC submitted photos and details to ensure the new aluminum windows matched the historic look of the original design based on feedback from the National Park Service.

Contractors replaced windows on the first and second floors, as well as old windows on a portion of the third floor of Garvey Hall.

In addition to enhancing the aesthetic and historic character of Garvey Hall, the new windows offer significant benefits in energy efficiency. Offices will be warmer in winter, cooler in the summer and quieter year-round, improving comfort for staff, faculty and students. The old windows will be properly disposed of as part of the project’s commitment to sustainability.

“We want to thank everyone on campus for their cooperation and patience, especially those who were displaced or briefly inconvenienced by this work,” Avery said. “This project is an excellent example of using state resources to preserve our historic campus while making necessary updates to support energy efficiency.”

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

• See All News