In The News

November 2007

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. and Simmons College celebrate ribbon cutting at Beatley Library

Students, faculty, staff, trustees and visitors gathered for the celebratory ribbon cutting for Beatley Library at Simmons College on October 24th. The event was held to commemorate the integral role that the Simmons Library plays in the educational goals and mission of the College.

This two phased project began with the demolition of the original Beatley Library and resulted in a new 62,000 s.f. state-of-the-art, technology-equipped library featuring ten high-tech classrooms, a large function space, lecture area, offices, photo and computer labs and new facilities for the Archives and the Communications Department.. The new structure was constructed via a pan slab system, thus creating greater floor-to-floor space than allowable with steel construction and connects to both Lefavour Hall and the Main Campus Building. The Beatley and Lefavour buildings now share common open spaces as well as a new, main mechanical and electrical room. Construction occurred while the building was occupied and fully operational.

October 2007

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. Completes Neponset Landing Apartments in Quincy, MA

Lee Kennedy has recently completed one of its largest construction projects to date, Neponset Landing. The new high-rise building offers the community 280 new apartments on 10 stories, including 28 affordable units, and a two-story above-grade parking garage. Situated on 4.86 acres of land where a dilapidated industrial building once stood, the apartment building features large units ranging in size from 700 sq. ft. for a one-bedroom unit to 1,500 sq. ft. for a two-bedroom unit, as well as penthouse suites. The complex also features various amenities including a common room for meetings with a surround sound theater, a fitness center, a library, a fully equipped internet/business center, a concierge service and a shuttle service to the North Quincy T station.

Stoughton-based Conroy Development hired The Architectural Team for design and Lee Kennedy Co. for the construction of the building located on the shores of the Neponset River within sight of the dramatic Boston skyline and Boston Harbor. The project broke ground in March 2006 with occupancy set for November of 2007.

Lee Kennedy Company’s Superintendent, Dan Lebiedz said, “I am proud to be part of a team that contributed to this spectacular waterfront property. This building will stand as a testament to our hard work and dedication.” The building is situated on a complex site which required concrete structural foundation framing, 140’ concrete piles, pile caps and grade beams. The site abuts railroad tracks, the Neponset River and bridge, and an office building which created tight conditions. During construction, large cranes were situated around the structure in order to perform major steel and concrete work while smaller cranes were used, once the upper structure was weather-tight, to complete the bottom 2 levels of elevated parking decks. The exterior of the building is comprised of pre-cast concrete architectural panels, EIFS, and masonry as well as punched windows and glass curtainwall.

September 2007

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. Celebrates Completion of Kennett High School In Conway, NH

Over 600 people joined together for the ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Kennett High School. Also in attendance at the ceremony was Governor John Lynch, Dr. Lyonel Tracey, and Commissioner of Education for the state of New Hampshire, and Carl Nelson, School Superintendent. After ten years of planning and anticipation the students, faculty and staff have started the new school year in a state-of-the-art learning environment. The afternoon was filled with excitement and a sense of pride from all those who put in so much time and effort over the years to make this dream come true.

In addition to classrooms and administrative areas, the new high school includes a gymnasium, library, 500-seat auditorium, science labs, new sports fields, computer labs and a 2,000 sf performance room. The school also includes a career/vocational center consisting of an auto shop, culinary arts facility, a machine shop, a graphics/multimedia lab and a drafting classroom. This facility will truly change the way the Kennett Community learns.

In an earlier testimonial, Carl J. Nelson, Superintendent stated “Throughout the preconstruction and construction process the Lee Kennedy Company staff was consistently responsive, courteous, and professional. I can highly recommend the Lee Kennedy Company as a partner for any client wishing to achieve a high quality building program.”

Lee Kennedy Co. is proud to have been part of such a successful effort made by the School District and Town of Conway. We are grateful to have worked with such a refined client, architect and a community who understands the importance a modern facility has on the education of their youth.

August 2007

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. Creates New Home for Victory Programs on Boston's Long Island

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. was hired by Victory Programs (Victory) to help renovate a portion of the Old State Hospital on Boston’s Long Island to create a safe haven for women and children while battling homelessness, addiction, or other chronic illnesses. The City of Boston donated this abandoned space to Victory Programs to supplement their other homes in the Boston area. This new facility, which is the first of its kind in the Commonwealth, will be named Joelyn’s Family Home, after a treasured friend of Victory’s family.

Prior to construction the space had numerous unhealthy and treacherous conditions. Before Victory could move into its new home Lee Kennedy Co. had to create a safe environment that was free of leaking ceilings, excessive mold and mildew, crumbling concrete and walls, and dilapidated fixtures. The entire Lee Kennedy Co. team worked tirelessly in planning efforts, and throughout demolition and construction, to deliver an exemplary final product.

Sue Bailey, Assistant Project Manager, Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. stated, “This was truly a special project that can be summed up in one word, ‘Amazing!’ The entire team pulled together and gave something heartfelt to the cause. The time and material that was donated by the architect, engineer and every contractor on this project to meet Victory Programs' budget and time constraints was awe inspiring and restored my faith in the giving nature of the human spirit. Joelyn's Family Home is a real victory for everyone involved as well as the families whose lives will be greatly improved by its existence.”

Renovations of this building included the complete gut and construction of a full working kitchen, sixteen bedrooms, and a family and activity center as well as offices and living quarters for the staff. The design of the new facility focuses on creating a homelike atmosphere and uses bright colors, millwork accents, and donated artwork throughout to create a cheerful space. Work also included new MEP systems, tel/data capabilities and a creation of a new building egress to bring it into ADA compliance. Lee Kennedy Co. worked in conjunction with TRO Jung Brannen and Vanderweil Engineers on the design. Many of the subcontractors generously donated materials and services to support this mission.

Volunteers from Lee Kennedy Co. Inc., Home Depot, Victory Programs, TRO Jung/Brannen and members of the community donated their time and energy on “Build Day” for Joelyn’s Family Home Playground. Kaboom! and Home Depot donated all the supplies necessary to construct the playground and several Lee Kennedy Co. employees joined project manager Paul Leonard, among others, to build the entire playground in a record breaking time, just under a full day.

Victory Programs held its grand opening and celebration in June of 2007 and will officially open doors in the Fall. Lee Kennedy team members were joined by Mayor Thomas Menino, staff and supporters of the Victory Programs, members of sub-consultant firms, and many others. Lee Michael Kennedy, President & CEO of Lee Kennedy Co. stated, “When you arrive and the customer gives you a hug and not a handshake, you know that something special has happened.”

June 14, 2007

The Bostonian Society wins Client of the Year from the Society of Marketing Professionals (SMPS)

The Spotlight on Excellence Awards Banquet was held in June of 2007 at the Courtyard Boston Tremont Hotel. Nominated by Lee Kennedy Co., The Bostonian Society (TBS), and in particular, Executive Director Brian LeMay was named Client of the Year by SMPS as a result of work completed at the Old State House Pamela Bailey, Project Manager at LKCO presented the award to TBS and shared with the audience her great passion in working on the restoration of the Old State House.

The award was based on a commitment to excellence, communication (internal and external), teamwork, and the overall impression of the client. The Boston Society passed all of these requirements with flying colors according to Lee Kennedy Co.’s Vice President, Shaila Kennedy Garland who remarked, “Without the consistent commitment to excellence from TBS and Brian LeMay the job would not have been such a success.”

The project included the replacement of bricks, mortar, and wood, faded and crumbling from centuries of exposure to cold Boston winters and searing city summers. Years of Nor’easters had caused significant water damage and rainwater seeped through the building's porous bricks and aging mortar, warping wooden wainscoting inside, stripping away paint and causing plaster to bubble and buckle. In an effort to repair damage before it became irreversible, TBS assumed financial responsibility for the building’s rescue and issued an appeal for help from public and private donors. The Society then hired Tellalian Associates for the design, Lee Kennedy Co. as general contractor and Judy Selwyn of Preservation Technology Consultants as a consultant, the restoration was set in motion.

This project was successful because of the commitment of the team and the direction of TBS. The willingness of TBS to be open to questions, provide professional expertise, and furnish valuable input added to the well-established communication. The team met to review the process, and to discuss items of significance which could affect progress. The Team’s keen interest in an end result with the highest level of quality and craftsmanship drove this project to success.

June 8, 2007

Massachusetts Housing Alliance breaks ground on their new home in Dorchester

On June 8th, 2007 the Massachusetts Affordable Housing Alliance (MAHA) broke ground on its new classroom and office facility which is due to open in the spring of 2008. MAHA has been helping first time homebuyers for over 20 years and looks forward to expanding their relationship with the community. The Alliance currently educates about 1,200 students per year and hopes to increase that number to 2,000 students within the next three to five years.

The three-story, 9,500 sf building is being built on the site of the current MAHA building which they have rented as their headquarters for over a decade. MAHA offices and classrooms for the Homeownership University will occupy the top two floors while the ground floor will include 1,700 sf of retail space that will contribute to the revitalization of the Peabody Square neighborhood. The project will follow EPA recommendations for “green” construction and include a demonstration room to provide homeowners with information on conservation, recycling, healthy homes and energy-efficient appliances.

Lee Kennedy Company is the general contractor and Studio G is the architect. State Representative Marty Walsh stated, “Lee Kennedy has been instrumental in leading us through the development process. We are deeply in debt to them for their generosity, advice and expertise.”

The funding campaign for the new building is ongoing; currently $2.75 million out of there $3.5 million goal has been raised. MAHA is going to move forward with construction, due to start this month, while they continue their fundraising efforts. They are reaching out to their alumni and other supporters throughout the city through mailings and phone calls. Supporters can also make donations to the MAHA “piggy bank” campaign at classes and information sessions the Alliance hosts.

June 2007

Lee Kennedy Co. Inc. is contractor for Award Winning Arnold Arboretum Shrub and Vine Collection

The M. Victor and Frances Leventritt Garden at The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is the recipient of the most prestigious national award from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). The General Design Award of Excellence is based on the quality of design and execution, context, environmental sensitivity and sustainability, and design value to the client (Harvard University). Designed by the landscape architecture firm of Reed|Hilderbrand Associates, in collaboration with Maryann Thompson Architects, the garden's form was inspired by agricultural landscapes; features include linear planting beds, terrace walls constructed of New England fieldstone, and modular, steel trellis systems for growing and training vines. An open-air pavilion provides a gathering place and additional surfaces for flowering vines.

Lee Kennedy Co., Inc. was the general contractor for this $2.5 million project which converted a 3.5-acre embankment into a terraced landscape to house the Arnold Arboretum’s new Shrub and Vine Collection. Public walks, gathering space, and an outdoor classroom have all been integrated into the garden to share with the community. The team of designers, horticulturists, and educators are continuing to develop a working framework for ordering the collections to be planted. The collaboration of all participants has produced a set of guiding principles which will foster the growth of these dynamic living collections.

Pam Bailey of Lee Kennedy Co., Inc. feels lucky to have been involved with the restoration and preservation of many of the area’s historic treasures.

Although I had been involved in the construction industry in New York City for over 10 years, my first project after moving to the Boston area, was the restoration of Harvard University’s historic Memorial Hall. Little did I know at the time that this would become my niche and passion. And, while I have managed both corporate and academic projects throughout the years I am most proud of what I have accomplished in this field. Historic restoration projects are an opportunity to preserve the past. A historic building upgrade does not seek to reinvent a structure, but to revitalize it so that when it is finished its original splendor is returned, its infrastructure is modernized and its architectural integrity is uncompromised.

I have found over the years that I have a particular propensity for complicated work that requires one to pour over details and review processes that will ultimately determine the success of each endeavor. Working with original materials that are often irreplaceable leaves little margin for error. A successful historic restoration project depends on assembling the right team of professionals and skilled craftsmen, conveying to each a respect for the property being restored, a respect for each professionals’ experience, maintaining open lines of communication and implementing strict quality control procedures that ensure a quality product.

I have been involved with some unusual yet rewarding projects. I have learned more about the nuances of working in old buildings, and my experience with, respect of, and passion for these historic structures increases daily. While at LKCo I oversaw the award-winning restoration of the Cutler Majestic Theatre at Emerson College. The restoration was performed in honor of the theater’s 100th anniversary. Painstaking measures were taken to replicate, as best as possible, the spectacle created when the theatre first opened its doors. The project was an amazing fusion of modern technology and time-honored craftsmanship.

I also managed a phase of the extremely complex McKim Building restoration at the Boston Public Library, the renovation of the New England Historic Genealogical Society Library on Newbury Street, Harvard University’s Edison & Newman Room at the Houghton Library, and I’ve even coordinated a restoration of historic stonewalls at the Arnold Arboretum. Currently I am completing both interior and exterior restoration work at the Old State House in Boston.

People have asked if being a woman in this profession may be more difficult but that is not the case. It has taken a lot of time, determination and persistence to continue in this field but I doubt it was any different for my male peers. I am fortunate that I really enjoy my career. This is a career where one never stops learning. Indeed, rarely are two restoration projects exactly alike and I have had the occasion to learn a great deal from the carpenters, tradespeople, architects and engineers that I have worked with on various projects. I feel that it is never too late to learn something new from the very old architecture around us. I look anxiously to my future while I keep my head buried deep in the details of the Old State House restoration project. I have respect and compassion for those I work with and I hope that my fairness and sense of humor always leaves people with the desire to collaborate with me again.

Pam Bailey is a project manager with Lee Kennedy Co., Inc. and was recently selected to serve on the Board of Directors for PreservatiON Mass.

New England Real Estate Journal - Insider tips for academic institutions to ensure construction projects run smoothly

A unique characteristic of academic construction projects is that there’s typically a large contingent of individuals with diverse roles and needs, who all have stake in the outcome of the project. Facilities departments, planning departments, information systems, faculty, campus security, administration -- all of these entities can be involved on any given construction project at an academic institution. One of the most critical components of a successfully completed project is to have all of these parties in sync from the onset of planning. This means that everyone involved not only understands what the end product will be, but the process involved to achieve it.

Successfully developing this process relies heavily on hiring the right designer and construction manager (CM). An effective designer and CM carve the path that leads all parties to consensus. Hiring the right team and hiring it early is essential. A CM’s early involvement in the design process greatly increases the amount of problems solved on paper, rather than in the field.

Issues that are most likely to make or break a successful project outcome are those that need to be tackled during the fetal stages of a project, these include items such as programming, master planning and preconstruction. Is the school confident in its programming for the building? Has the needs of all end users been accounted for, from the custodian and music teacher to the dean and the students? Is a master plan needed in order to confirm that the project is in line with the school’s future vision? Does the project entail complex logistics or siting scenarios? Will the escalating price of construction materials effect budget expectations? Solving issues early defuses problems that will otherwise add cost down the road.

The two most fundamental components of any construction project are budget and schedule. Schools need to have a realistic understanding of what money is available to them for a construction project and the CM’s role is to work responsibly within that budget. Similarly, a realistic time frame to complete design and construction needs to be established. A proper master schedule not only outlines construction activity but also identifies each phase of design development, budget pricing associated with the design phases, and any long-lead construction materials that might be required. The CM will work with the school to set schedule milestones and it’s imperative that all parties agree on the dates and adhere to them diligently.

There are some very low-cost initiatives schools can perform that are time-proven techniques for saving money on construction projects. These techniques are as simple as becoming intimate with the drawings and having constant involvement at the jobsite. The more thoroughly the school’s representatives understand the drawings the less likely for changes to occur midway through construction. A good CM is a partner, not an adversary. The CM’s role is to answer questions and clarify uncertainties. A simple question asked during preconstruction could have little to no impact on the construction cost of the project. However, a question asked during construction probably will.

Likewise, the more exposure the school’s representatives have to the work as it’s put in place, the clearer the picture becomes of the end product. Reducing surprises reduces changes, which reduces cost.

Because of the multiple stakeholders involved in an academic construction project, the old adage about “too many cooks in the kitchen” can rear its ugly head all too often during construction. A major culprit for extending a project’s schedule and creating budget concern is indecisiveness. When an issue arises during construction, designating a single point of leadership that works in the best interest of all can prove to be another money-saving technique. Expediting the decision-making process keeps schedules on track and subsequently on budget. With that point in mind, however, it’s the CM’s responsibility to provide as much information as possible so that an educated decision can be reached easily.

An effective CM is one that fosters an environment of clear and consistent communication. A good CM understands the school’s goals and develops a roadmap that guides everyone involved to the same endpoint – a successfully completed construction project.

Bob O’Leary is a project executive at Lee Kennedy Co., Inc., a Boston-based general contractor. He specializes in academic construction projects, working for such clients as Harvard University, Suffolk University, Boston College High School and Simmons College.