CHATHAM, Ill. — Serving as general contractor, S. M. Wilson & Co. has begun a $4.5 million comprehensive upgrade project for Ball-Chatham Community Unit School District 5 to enhance energy efficiency and indoor comfort for students and staff at Ball Elementary School.

The construction work will be completed during the summer break in time for the 2026-2027 school year.

The scope of work centers on converting the existing variable refrigerant flow system to a state-of-the-art geothermal system, reflecting the district’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and long-term operational savings.

The architect is Graham & Hyde Architects, Inc. of Springfield, Ill.

In addition to the HVAC system conversion, the project includes the complete replacement of ceilings throughout the school to not only accommodate the new mechanical systems but also refresh the interior environment. The electrical infrastructure is also being significantly upgraded to ensure reliable and efficient operation of the new systems.

S. M. Wilson has worked in partnership with 46 school districts in Missouri and Illinois, including Alton Community Unit School District No. 11, Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7, Granite City Community Unit School District 9 and Rochester Community Unit School District 3A, among others.