Head Start Facility expansion -Where do we start?
As a recipient of the Head Start program, you may be finding yourself running out of space or dealing with an outdated facility. If so, there are several options to consider. These include expanding or renovating your current facility, finding a new location in an existing building and renovating it, or constructing a new facility altogether. However, before diving into these options, it's crucial to ensure that your community assessment is up-to-date and reflects the current and future needs of the program.
Once you have a clear idea of the space needed to handle present and future growth, it's time to evaluate the available options for upgrading your facility. Even if staying in your existing location seems like the best choice, it's important to investigate and consider alternative sites if you're seeking federal funding. This is where a knowledgeable consultant with experience in real estate development, construction, and OHS regulations and requirements can be invaluable.
There are numerous variables to consider when evaluating different facility options:
• Existing buildings
- Is there too much-deferred maintenance?
- Is annual maintenance costly?
- Is there too much-deferred maintenance?
- Does the existing zoning allow for a childcare program?
- Will it meet all licensing and fire marshal requirements?
- Location
• New Construction
- Is it a complex site?
- Zoning
- Large enough for potential expansion
- Access
- Availability of utilities
- Location
- Availability of Contractor
• Funding (when using federal funds)
- 1303 sub-part E applications
- Appraisals
- Design (plans and specifications)
- SF-429 forms
- Environmental Site Assessments Phase 1
- Budgeting
- Deviations
- Leases
- Subordination agreements
- Procurement and contracting
Every time a 1303 application is returned after submittal, it delays the
approval process significantly. This can add months to the NOA decision.
The top three reasons for returns are:
1. Environmental Site Assessments Phase 1 - Recognized environmental
conditions found or other issues
2. Plans and specifications not adequate or improperly done
3. Cost estimates and Budgets are not sufficient
With a Head Start Facility Consultant specializing in real estate, construction,
and federal funding, the likelihood of getting the right property, and first-time
approval of the 1303 application is greatly enhanced.