DURHAM, NC — Skanska, a global development and construction firm, recently raised the final beam atop Baucom Elementary School, a 134,310-square-foot, K-5 facility under construction in Apex, North Carolina. Designed by architect Andre Johnson Architect, the new two-story school will accommodate over 700 students and include specialty classrooms for music, art, special education, and a new gymnasium, media center, dining hall, and a monumental staircase. This replacement facility will be a modern and innovative learning environment in the community when completed.

"Skanska is honored to be part of the construction of Baucom Elementary School, which will foster a nurturing and contemporary environment where students can learn, thrive, and excel," said Mark Balling, Executive Vice President responsible for Skanska’s North Carolina and Virginia building operations. "Our team is proud to have safely reached this milestone, and we eagerly anticipate delivering this exceptional facility to the Apex community."

The topping out ceremony honors the construction team’s work and signals a time of celebration for the progress made on a project. The effort to achieve this milestone includes:

• Pouring more than 3,200 cubic yards of concrete
• Laying more than 250 tons of rebar weighing more than 500,000 pounds
• Working more than 50,000 hours to date

Community leaders, teachers, students, and construction workers, gathered to mark this occasion by signing the final beam as a symbol of the advancements made since the project broke ground in January 2023. This beam, adorned with the names and well wishes of those who have worked on this project and students, staff, and community members alike, is now incorporated into the school.