News

Revitalizing Communities with Neighborhood Schools

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A community isn’t quite the same without a neighborhood school.

Some might call it the heart of a neighborhood — a place where the future is constantly in motion, with generations of students passing through its doors. At its core, a neighborhood school is rooted in a simple idea: children should be able to learn close to home, walk to class, and grow up alongside the neighbors they know.

Families see one another at morning drop-off. Gymnasiums and auditoriums fill for concerts, games, and celebrations. Over time, a school becomes part of a place’s identity — a steady presence that helps define the character of a community. That’s something we recognize and take to heart at CSG.

Over the years, it has been a privilege to work alongside districts across the State of Connecticut to support community-based schools. We take pride in serving as a guide, helping shepherd complex school construction programs with discipline, transparency, and a long-term perspective.

In both Norwalk and Norwich, we have supported multi-year facilities master plans representing significant public investments in education — more than $400 million in Norwalk and $385 million in Norwich.

Within those programs are two projects that stand out for what they represent beyond construction alone: the return of neighborhood schools.

In Norwalk, the new South Norwalk Elementary School marks the first new neighborhood school built in South Norwalk in more than 40 years. The 86,332-square-foot facility, which opened for the 2025–2026 academic year, serves more than 600 students in grades K–3. Situated on a 12-acre site, the school was thoughtfully planned to serve the South Norwalk community and relieve overcrowding in other district schools. With modern classrooms, flexible learning environments, and welcoming outdoor spaces, it represents both a capacity solution and a long-term neighborhood investment.

“When a city commits to a neighborhood school, it is making a long-term commitment to the people who live there. South Norwalk Elementary reflects that kind of vision — creating a place where students can learn close to home and where the school itself becomes part of the community’s future,” says Jim Giuliano, President.

In Norwich, the new Greeneville Elementary School brings a community school back to its original site for the first time since the previous building closed in 2010. The approximately 80,000-square-foot facility will serve nearly 600 Pre-K through Grade 5 students. Located in the historic Greeneville village — named for early industrialist William Greene — the project reconnects the neighborhood with an institution that once played a central role in daily life. Now under construction and progressing toward completion in early 2027, the new school restores a local option for families who have spent more than a decade without one.

“Projects like Greeneville Elementary show that school construction is not only about new space — it is about restoring access, connection, and community identity,” says Mike Faenza, Senior Project Manager. “Bringing a school back to this neighborhood helps reestablish something that has long been part of daily life here.”

These are large, complex capital projects requiring careful coordination, financial stewardship, and steady leadership. But they also demonstrate something more fundamental: when cities choose to reinvest in neighborhood schools, they reinforce stability and strengthen the fabric of their communities.

Managing programs of this scale requires technical expertise and fiscal accountability. It also requires an understanding that schools are long-term civic assets. We are proud to support Norwalk and Norwich in delivering facilities that meet today’s educational needs while restoring something many neighborhoods have been missing.

CSG Announces Promotion of Mike Faenza to Senior Project Manager

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Construction Solutions Group (CSG) is pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Faenza to Senior Project Manager, recognizing his leadership, experience, and expanding role in managing complex public-sector building programs.

Mike joined CSG in 2018 and has steadily advanced through the organization by taking on increasing responsibility and demonstrating a strong commitment to project execution, client service, and team leadership. Early in his tenure at CSG, Mike played a key role in delivering several major school construction projects for the City of Norwalk, gaining hands-on experience managing large teams, tight schedules, and the challenges inherent to publicly funded work.

In Norwalk, Mike managed the Ponus STEAM Academy addition and alteration project, which was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic and required heightened coordination, flexibility, and problem-solving to maintain progress amid unprecedented constraints. He also supported the renovate-as-new project at Jefferson Elementary School, as well as the new construction of Cranbury Elementary School—a project that exemplified collaboration and excellence in public school design and delivery.

Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, Norwalk, CT

Jefferson Elementary School, Norwalk, CT

The Cranbury Elementary School project was recognized with the First Place Award in the Large Pre-K–12 Schools category at the 2024 Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) Project Team Awards, a testament to the exceptional teamwork required to deliver a facility that balances form, function, and community focus.

Cranbury Elementary School, Norwalk, CT

Leadership on the Norwich School Construction Program

Most recently, Mike has taken on a leadership role within the Norwich school construction program, one of the most significant and multifaceted K–12 capital programs currently underway in Connecticut. As the program has expanded, Mike has stepped into increased responsibility managing multiple projects at varying stages of design, preconstruction, and construction, while supporting team integration and maintaining strong working relationships with municipal partners and school leadership.

His ability to manage complexity, anticipate challenges, and lead through action has made him a trusted resource within the program and across the broader CSG team.

Stanton Elementary School, Norwich, CT

A Career Built in Educational and Municipal Facilities

Mike brings more than 10 years of construction management experience across secondary education, higher education, and municipal facilities. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Central Connecticut State University and has built a career grounded in project delivery, quality control, safety, and collaboration.

Prior to joining CSG, Mike served as a Project Manager at the Capitol Region Education Council (CREC) from 2015 to 2018, where he worked as a Clerk of the Works and Owner’s Project Manager on public safety, community, and educational facilities. Notable projects include the Town of Ledyard Police Facility and the Town of North Stonington Center for Emergency Services, as well as multiple large scale K–12 school and energy conservation projects.

Mike previously held project management roles with Milestone Construction Services in New Haven, where he managed renovation and upgrade projects for Yale University and the University of New Haven, along with earlier positions at Shawmut Design and Construction, Standard Builders, and Jacobs Engineering.

Experience That Adds Value to Every Project

Mike’s diverse portfolio includes K–12 schools, higher education institutions, municipal buildings, and public safety facilities. His experience on both the Owner’s Project Management and Construction Management sides of the industry provide him with a comprehensive understanding of construction administration, quality assurance, and stakeholder coordination—skills that are essential to the successful delivery of complex public programs.

“Mike’s promotion reflects the responsibility he has taken on, the initiative he has shown, and the consistency of his performance,” said Jim Giuliano, President of CSG. “He has earned trust through his actions and results, and his leadership will continue to be an asset as our work grows in scale and complexity.”

CSG congratulates Mike on this well-earned promotion and looks forward to his continued leadership in delivering high-quality facilities for communities across Connecticut.

The Heat is On: Preparing for FF&E in School Construction Projects

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:00:00 +0000

When a new school year begins, students, teachers, and staff expect to walk into a fully functional, welcoming building. That means the furniture, fixtures, and equipment—commonly referred to as FF&E—must be installed, tested, and ready to go. In school construction projects, the FF&E phase often lands in the summer months, making it one of the most critical and time-sensitive parts of the process.

Few know this better than Eileen Eagle, Project Manager at Construction Solutions Group (CSG). With a background in corporate real estate, she first learned the intricacies of FF&E by managing interior buildouts, gaining hands-on experience with everything from furniture selection to logistics. More recently, she assisted with the FF&E process for the new South Norwalk School, guiding the project from showroom visits to the final installation.

“Furniture delivery doesn’t always wait for you to finish paving,” says Eileen. “You have to be ready. That means the building needs to be clean, accessible, and properly staged, and it is best to have both a plan A and a plan B.”

What is FF&E and Why It Matters

FF&E includes everything from student desks, lab benches, and library shelving to whiteboards, filing cabinets, and cafeteria tables. These movable assets aren’t part of the structure itself, but they are essential to creating a safe, functional, and engaging learning environment.

In today’s schools, FF&E choices go far beyond aesthetics. Furniture must be durable enough to withstand heavy daily use, adaptable to support collaborative and independent learning, and ergonomic to enhance comfort and focus.

Technology integration is also increasingly important, with charging stations and power access designed directly into desks and tables.

“Schools need furniture that’s flexible,” Eileen explains.

“It has to serve multiple purposes—whether that’s for group projects, quiet study, or just making it easier for custodial staff to clean. Something as simple as stackable chairs can make a big difference.”

Planning Ahead

For CSG, successful FF&E coordination starts months before trucks arrive at the site. Eileen emphasizes the importance of involving the right professionals early: “It’s best to work with a dealership and the architect. For new schools or major renovations, staff will often visit showrooms to try out furniture. Having an architect create a color board helps narrow down choices that can otherwise feel overwhelming.”

That planning stage should also involve administrators, facilities teams, and IT departments. For example, choosing the right finishes—laminate versus veneer, vinyl versus fabric—not only affects look and feel but also durability and maintenance. Considering student growth and varying sizes ensures that furniture fits users over time. Even small details matter. “In administrative areas, I always recommend keying filing cabinets alike,” Eileen notes. “It makes life a lot easier for staff. Those types of suggestions are things that you don’t immediately think about, but are no less essential.”

Tackling Delivery Logistics

The true crunch time for FF&E is delivery and installation, which often falls during the summer. Everything must be coordinated around the final stages of construction. If the main entrance isn’t complete or elevators aren’t available, deliveries can grind to a halt.

“Simple things—like posting floorplans on classroom doors—save time and headaches,” says Eileen. “Delivery crews can see exactly where furniture goes. You also need staging areas ready, rooms clean, and clear communication about where trucks can unload. If a driveway is still being paved, you need an alternate plan.”

Helping Owners Prepare

Eileen stresses that owners play a key role in a smooth FF&E process. Clear communication and early involvement are crucial. “Owners should be made aware of the schedule well in advance,” she explains. “That means knowing when furniture is coming, when to start purging old items, and how to coordinate staff moves.”

Move meetings can begin up to six months before delivery for larger projects. These sessions cover everything from labeling and color-coding existing furniture to deciding who will pack and handle IT equipment or library books. “Each time you do one of these projects, you always take away a lesson learned,” Eileen reflects.

More than just Furniture

At its core, the FF&E phase is about a lot more than simply installing desks and chairs. The goal is to create a safe, adaptable, and inspiring environment where students and staff can thrive from day one. With careful planning, strong communication, and attention to detail, the chaos of summer installations transforms into a seamless first day of school.

“Communication is the key to everything,” says Eagle. “When everyone is on the same page—owners, architects, contractors, and movers—that’s when it all comes together.”

Groundbreaking Marks Start of John Wallace Middle School Transformation

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000

CSG President James Giuliano and Project Manager Eileen Eagle were pleased to attend Wednesday’s groundbreaking ceremony to signify the official start of construction for renovation of the John Wallace Middle School in Newington.

We were joined by Mayor Jon Trister, MPA, Town Council members, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maureen Brummet, Principal Daniel Dias, State Representatives Kate C. Farrar and Gary Turco, and State Senator Matthew Lesser. The ceremony highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, which saw the Town’s Board of Education and Town Council join forces to get a referendum passed, in turn receiving a higher reimbursement rate from the State.

School projects are at the heart of what we do, and CSG is honored to serve as Owner's Project Manager for this renovation. This project represents the continuation of a rewarding partnership with the Town of Newington and its schools. What started as a professional relationship has grown into a genuine partnership – we’re honored to work alongside Chairman Stephen Woods and the building committee, Town leadership, the Board of Education, and Newington Public Schools staff.

Managing renovations while keeping schools operational requires a particular kind of coordination, in this case provided by CSG’s Eileen Eagle. Eileen’s experience managing phased renovations in occupied facilities has been integral to the success of this project, and she has navigated these challenges with grace. We’d also like to thank our collaborative partners on this project: Newfield Construction and Friar Architecture Inc.

As we formally break ground, we're excited to see this vision come to life. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the community of Newington, and seeing John Wallace Middle School serve students and families for generations to come.

Greenville is Back: Groundbreaking Celebrates the Return of a Beloved School

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000

On a sunny June afternoon, members of the Norwich community gathered on Golden Street to celebrate not just a groundbreaking — but a homecoming.

The future Greenville Elementary School, now officially underway, will bring new life to the same site that housed the original school, which closed in 2010 due to accessibility, budget, and parking constraints. For the neighborhood that once rallied around that building as a community cornerstone, Monday’s ceremony marked a meaningful return.

Construction Solutions Group (CSG) is proud to serve as Owner’s Project Manager for the second of six new schools being delivered through the City of Norwich’s historic $385 million school construction program.

Speakers throughout the afternoon reflected a shared sense of pride, perseverance, and purpose. Dr. Marianne Nardone, former principal of the original Greenville School, described it as a true community center — a place where families felt welcomed and supported. She recalled a Norwich Bulletin headline from 2010: “Families bid Greenville goodbye.” At the podium, she offered a powerful reply: “Today, we say hello again.”

Pictured from left to right: Tim Smith, Mark Bettencourt,
Mike Faenza, and Mike Jackson

State Representative Derrell Wilson, a graduate of Norwich Public Schools and former Greenville student, described the surrounding neighborhood as “resilient” — a densely populated area that has endured many evolutions of change.

With 37 languages spoken and dozens of ethnic backgrounds represented, Greenville was identified early in the Facilities Review Committee’s process as a top priority for reinvestment. Mayor Peter Nystrom emphasized the importance of listening to the community and delivering on the promise to restore this vital resource.

Building Committee Chairman Mark Bettencourt acknowledged the challenges of the site — ledge, rock, and extensive sitework — but underscored that the effort is well worth it. The return of Greenville is not only an investment in education, but in community.

The new school will once again serve as a vital anchor in one of Norwich’s most historic and dynamic neighborhoods.

CSG is honored to help bring Greenville back — and forward — alongside our design and construction partners, DRA and Downes Construction.

Outstanding Young Professional: Sam D’Agostino Recognized by Construction Institute

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

We’re proud to share that our very own Samantha D’Agostino was recognized as the 2025 Outstanding Young Professional by the Construction Institute during a special ceremony this week.

Sam joined Construction Solutions Group in 2020 and has quickly distinguished herself as a rising leader in the industry. She currently serves as the on-site lead for a $42 million renovate-as-new Sherman School project, which is set to begin construction this summer. But that’s just one piece of her growing portfolio.

In addition to leading that major initiative, Sam also supports several other active and upcoming programs — from supporting active K-12 school programs with grant applications and pre-referendum strategy, to providing guidance during early design phases, and juggling miscellaneous projects across various stages of planning, construction, and closeout. Her ability to stay organized, focused, and client-centered across so many fronts is part of what makes her such an asset to the CSG team.

Sam’s nomination highlighted her professionalism, creativity, and unwavering dedication to learning and improvement — qualities that show up daily in her work and in her leadership across the firm.

During her acceptance speech, Sam reflected on the many mentors, colleagues, and family members who helped shape her journey and encouraged her to take on new challenges. “This award isn’t just about me,” she said. “It’s about all the people who’ve helped me along the way.”

Congratulations, Sam! We’re proud of the leader you are and the teammate you continue to be.

Celebrating New Beginnings: WHFH Ribbon Cutting Marks Major Milestone in Campus Redevelopment

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Under sunny June skies in West Hartford, West Hartford Fellowship Housing (WHFH) celebrated a major milestone in its multi-phase redevelopment with a ribbon cutting ceremony for Phase I of its campus transformation.

This project, for which Construction Solutions Group (CSG) proudly served as Owner’s Project Manager, is the first step in a visionary plan that will ultimately bring 300 new or renovated affordable housing units to low-income seniors and disabled residents.

The event underscored local, state, and federal partnership and collective effort required to make this long-standing vision a reality.

WHFH Board President Keith Robertson opened the ceremony, reflecting on the decade-long journey and the organization’s guiding belief: that everyone deserves the comfort, dignity, and security of a home. He also noted the progress ahead, with Phase II poised to deliver an additional 77 new units.

Speakers included Rob Michalik of the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno of the Connecticut Department of Housing, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, State Senator Derek Slap, Representative Jillian Gilchrest, and Mayor Shari Cantor — whose decades of public service were honored with the unveiling of the newly named Shari G. Cantor Community Room.

Their remarks underscored a consistent theme: the importance of preserving and reimagining housing as an essential part of community well-being, especially in desirable, inclusive places like West Hartford.

Senator Slap and Representative Gilchrest addressed Connecticut’s broader housing crisis, reminding the audience of the urgent need for 300,000 housing units across the state, while uplifting WHFH as a model for community-driven solutions. A heartfelt highlight of the event showcased resident video testimonials, capturing emotional reactions as seniors stepped into their new apartments for the first time.

Leon Davidoff, WHFH board member, called the project one of the most meaningful professional accomplishments of his career. CEO Mark Garilli, formerly a project executive at CSG, closed the program with a reminder of WHFH’s mission-driven culture, captured in two simple but powerful words: Be kind. He praised the 6 days a week, 18-month effort of Haynes Construction and its subcontractors, whose tireless dedication brought Paul B. Bailey Architect's design and the organization's vision a reality.

As Phase I residents settle into their new homes, WHFH is just a few thousand dollars away from meeting its $100,000 fundraising goal — a testament to the deep generosity and shared belief in the power of home.

The celebration concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, refreshments, and a shared sense of pride in what’s been accomplished — and what’s still to come.

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Breaking Ground on a Bright Future for Norwich Schools

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

On Tuesday, the City of Norwich marked a major milestone in its $385 million school construction program with a groundbreaking ceremony at John B. Stanton Elementary School — the first of six schools to undergo transformative construction.

Hosted in the school auditorium, the event brought together members of the CSG team, local and state representatives, DRA Architects, and Downes Construction. Principal Carolina Mendez-Korczynski welcomed guests, with 5th graders leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Superintendent Susan Lessard, once the school’s principal for seven years, praised “Team Norwich” and highlighted the contributions of CSG’s Mike Faenza, who has led efforts to incorporate staff feedback and make the new space feel like home.

The program, originally conceived in 2016, has achieved up to 80% reimbursement for its first four schools — a testament to years of advocacy and collaboration, noted Building Committee Chair Mark Bettencourt.

Mayor Peter Nystrom acknowledged the crucial role of Norwich taxpayers, calling the program “something much greater than bricks and mortar.”

State Senator Cathy Osten, Representative Derell Wilson — himself a Norwich Public Schools alum — and Norwich Public Utilities’ Jeff Brining also shared remarks celebrating the day’s significance. The event concluded with a ceremonial groundbreaking in front of the school, symbolizing the start of a new era for Norwich students and families.

Construction Solutions Group Celebrates Ten Year Anniverary

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Image Credit: J. Fiereck Photography

It’s hard to believe that an entire decade has passed since we first opened our doors. Time has flown by, and what a remarkable journey it has been! To mark this significant milestone, we celebrated our 10 year anniversary in November 2024, while also commemorating our recent relocation to the City of Hartford.

This momentous occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on our growth, accomplishments, and, most importantly, the meaningful relationships we've built along the way. When we first started, we had a vision to not only make a difference in the industry but to create lasting connections with our clients, industry partners, and the community. As we celebrate this milestone, we are proud of what we’ve accomplished, but even more excited about what’s to come. Our growth over the past decade has been a direct result of the dedication, hard work, and passion of our incredible staff, consultants, industry partners, and clients.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of our journey, from those who have been with us since the beginning to those who have joined us along the way. Your support, trust, and collaboration have shaped the company we are today, and we are immensely proud of the work we've done together.

This celebration wasn’t just about looking back—it’s also about looking forward. With 10 years of experience under our belt, we’re more determined than ever to continue building on our mission and making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead and are committed to evolving, innovating, and staying true to our core values of perseverance, dedication, and integrity.

Here’s to the next 10 years and beyond. We are excited to continue this journey and make a lasting difference in the communities around us.

A Special Night of Recognition: CBC Project Team Awards

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Image Credit: Peter Brown Photography

Since our founding, Construction Solutions Group has embraced the opportunity to work throughout Connecticut. From schools and municipal facilities to colleges and recreational centers, we take pride in applying our expertise to meaningful projects in the state we call home.

Witnessing the joy on a student's face as they step into a freshly renovated or brand-new school makes every hour we put in worthwhile, and when our project teams are recognized for their efforts, it affirms that our work is about more than just budgets and schedules, plans and specs—it's about enriching communities through a collaborative design and construction process.

Two of our projects were recognized at last month’s Connecticut Building Congress 28th Annual Project Team & Scholarship Awards Celebration. CSG was honored for its contributions to two award-winning projects, taking home first place in the Large Pre-K-12 Schools category for the Cranbury Elementary School in Norwalk and first place in the Large Civil category for the Innis Arden Golf Club in Greenwich.

However, the pinnacle of the evening was the Project Team of the Year Award, which celebrated the exceptional work on the new Cranbury Elementary School. Our team, led by project manager Michael Faenza, worked in collaboration with architect Antinozzi Associates and construction manager Newfield Construction to provide OPM services for the design and construction of the impressive 62,288-square-foot facility. This prestigious award underscores the cooperation, teamwork, and dedication of all project partners and stakeholders.

"At the end of the day, it's a school where kids need to learn,” says Project Manager Mike Faenza. “With the work at Cranbury, we took it a little further; we were really concerned with how the building operates when we're gone. Especially on this project, I think we've met the perfect synergy between form and function – a testament to all the project partners' work on this school."

At CSG, we are honored to work on such meaningful projects across Connecticut, enhancing educational facilities and contributing to the state’s growth and development. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winning teams, including the owners, architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, subcontractors, service providers, and suppliers. Your collective efforts were critical in making these award-winning projects a reality.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We’re looking forward to continuing to support Connecticut in the years ahead.