Douglas County West Community Schools

Douglas County West Community Schools

Morrissey Engineering played a key role in the design team for the 2021 bond initiative, which included a new theater and fine arts addition, along with renovations and expansions to the combined middle and high school campus in Valley, Nebraska. The project improves academic and extracurricular spaces by upgrading infrastructure and focusing on performance.

Services

Services also included theatrical lighting design and audio/visual systems design

Features

A key part of the project is the new theater and fine arts addition, featuring a 500-seat auditorium for a wide range of performances and events. Morrissey Engineering designed specialized theatrical lighting and audio-visual systems to make the venue flexible and high-performing. The lighting system uses energy-efficient LED fixtures, advanced dimming and controls, and adjustable lighting positions for different events. The audio-visual setup includes a full sound system, digital mixing, projection, and distributed AV to provide clear sound and an immersive experience in the auditorium and nearby spaces.

    

The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were designed to support both performance and daily educational needs. The HVAC systems were designed to reduce noise and vibration, enhancing comfort and supporting a focused educational environment. Electrical systems were designed with extra capacity and flexibility for lighting and AV equipment in the fine arts center, and to accommodate future upgrades. Energy-efficient lighting and controls are used throughout the building to improve performance and lower costs. Plumbing design supports new restrooms, concessions, and special areas, ensuring durability and efficiency.

  

The project also added new classrooms, renovated existing ones, and upgraded athletic and wellness facilities, including the weight room, locker rooms, wrestling and cardio spaces, and multipurpose areas. In all new and renovated spaces, Morrissey Engineering provided coordinated MEP solutions to improve reliability, indoor air quality, and long-term maintenance.

 

Project

Addition/Renovation

Location

Valley, Nebraska

Square Footage

38,000 SF Addition
34,000 SF Renovation

Completion Date

2024

Architect

BCDM