# 09/22/26 Dwight School Building Committee

The Town of Fairfield Connecticut's Dwight School Building Committee convened on September 22, 2026, to discuss critical procurement and budget considerations related to the new school building project. The committee reviewed and analyzed life cycle cost assessments for two primary HVAC system options: a full geothermal system with chilled beams and a VRF air-source heat pump system. The discussion highlighted the upfront capital cost difference of approximately $4.3 to $5.4 million between the two systems, with the geothermal option offering significant long-term operational savings and environmental benefits. The committee also addressed the timing and process for securing town approvals, emphasizing the need for decisions by October to avoid project delays impacting the planned 2029 school opening. Additional procurement-related topics included the potential use of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) for construction, with concerns raised about increased costs, reduced bidder participation, and schedule impacts. The committee debated the inclusion of natural gas infrastructure for kitchen and heating systems, ultimately leaning toward an all-electric approach due to environmental and cost considerations. The meeting concluded with plans to present findings and recommendations to the town's Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance, with a possible special meeting to expedite approvals.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Sources
- [09/22/26 Dwight School Building Committee](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAFTEjb6o34) - Town of Fairfield Connecticut Recorded Meetings