TAMPA, FL — Creative Contractors recently broke ground on the rebuilding of the Tinker School, a school for pre-K through 8th graders located on MacDill Air Force Base. Developed in partnership with Hillsborough County Schools, the project will replace the existing campus with a climate-resilient facility to serve the children of Air Force personnel.

The 135,000-square-foot campus, constructed over 36 months in three phases, will feature five new buildings, including multiple two-story classroom wings, a gymnasium, an administrative/media building, and a cafeteria with an integrated music hall. The design emphasizes durability and safety, incorporating climate-resilient features such as:

• Elevated structures: Buildings will be elevated 2 feet above the 100-year floodplain to mitigate flood risks
• Storm-ready construction: Insulated Concrete Form exterior walls and reinforced foundations ensure durability against severe weather
• FEMA compliance: All structures are positioned outside the Limit of Moderate Wave Energy per FEMA’s 2021 floodplain maps

In addition to modern learning spaces, the 18-acre campus will upgrade the recreational facilities, including ball courts, playgrounds, and a new track and field complex. Redesigned parking areas and pedestrian-friendly causeways will enhance accessibility for students, parents, and faculty.

“This project reflects our commitment to innovation and resilience in education," said Josh Bomstein, President & CEO of Creative Contractors. "The new Tinker School will provide a safe, modern, and inspiring environment for students while setting a benchmark for sustainable school design. It’s especially rewarding to be a part of the team providing this enhanced facility for our brave military families.”