Watson Institute

PJ Dick has provided preconstruction and Construction Management at Risk services for The Watson Institute across multiple campuses, completing 10 projects totaling more than $47 million since 2010 for one of the region’s premier providers of special education services for children ages three to 21. These projects include a diverse range of renovations, additions, and new construction, often completed within active, specialized education environments requiring careful phasing, coordination, and enhanced safety measures.

Key projects include the 43,000-square-foot New Education Center in Bridgeville, a $17 million facility featuring sensory areas, classrooms, fitness spaces, and administrative support areas; a $10 million, 50,000-square-foot Friendship Academy in Shadyside; and the $10 million Main Campus Expansion in Sewickley, which combined a 33,600-square-foot renovation with a 4,800-square-foot addition and extensive site improvements. Additional work includes the 5,200-square-foot Education Center Addition in Bridgeville, the 4,520-square-foot Carriage House Renovations in Sewickley, and an 8,700-square-foot renovation at the Cupples Center introducing new classrooms, offices, and upgraded MEP systems.

Across all projects, PJ Dick implemented phased construction strategies to minimize disruption to ongoing educational operations while maintaining strict safety protocols suitable for sensitive learning environments. Through a collaborative, open-book approach and consistent stakeholder communication, PJ Dick successfully delivered each project to meet program goals, budget expectations, and schedule requirements.