Hours of Onsite Labor
50,000 +
19
Subcontractors
Zero
Recordable Safety Incidents
Project Description
The Chief Leschi Schools project modernized a 200,000 SF K–12 campus across three existing buildings, focused on improving comfort for students and staff while dramatically reducing energy use. MacDonald-Miller partnered with the district to replace aging systems with high-efficiency technology that enhances indoor air quality and long-term sustainability.
The upgrade replaced outdated hot water fan coil units with a state-of-the-art Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system, supported by 116 indoor fan coils, 29 condensing units, and 73 energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) to deliver fresh air and efficient cooling throughout the buildings. The project also included the installation of eight new air handling units and a fully upgraded controls system to provide advanced heat recovery and optimize energy performance across the campus.
Through innovation, detailed coordination, and system integration, MacDonald-Miller delivered a high-performing HVAC solution that ensures consistent comfort, reduces operational costs, and supports the school’s commitment to creating a healthy, energy-efficient learning environment for future generations.
Highlights
Critical Infrastructure
Chief Leschi High School faced long-standing infrastructure failures that left classrooms unbearably hot and systems in complete disarray. We replaced failing equipment and controls with reliable, modern solutions designed for comfort and performance.
Funding Success
As a non-taxable tribal school, securing resources required creativity and persistence. Through lobbying, community advocacy, and Bureau of Indian Education support, we helped deliver over $30 million in funding to fully cover project costs.
Proven ESCO Delivery
Leveraging the ESCO process, we guaranteed costs, timelines, and accountability, providing the school with financial certainty and peace of mind. Meticulous pre-planning ensured the work was completed within the critical summer construction window.
True Partnership
We go beyond construction by helping clients secure funding, strengthen capital requests, and demonstrate long-term value through carbon reduction and community impact.
A big shout out to our Performance Contracting Team whose hard work and dedication in the planning stages made these upgrades possible. Their expertise ensured that Chief Leschi School now has an HVAC system that not only supports a healthy and comfortable learning environment but also aligns with best practices in energy conservation and operational efficiency.George Pfeiffer, Vice President of Building Controls at MacDonald-Miller
Project Management
We know demand precision, especially with construction limited to narrow summer windows. That’s why we lean in early, holding regular planning sessions with the client to build alignment, lock in commitments, and anticipate challenges before they hit the site. Our experience and forethought turn complex schedules into seamless execution, minimizing disruption and keeping schools on track.
Funding
Securing funding for Chief Leschi was no small task. As a non-taxable tribal district, traditional financing wasn’t an option, so we helped chart a new path. Through a coordinated effort with local and state partners, and with critical support from the Bureau of Indian Education, we successfully secured more than strong data in funding to make this project possible.
Client Relationships
By staying closely connected with our clients, listening, collaborating, and solving problems together, we build trust that lasts well beyond project closeout.
Our Partners
Armadillo Painting, LLC
Alldirections Cleaning
BlueCore Power
Industry Erectors Inc DBE / MBE
EBD Services
Tenor Engineering Group
Interior Visions
Kamp’s Kwik Kleening
Nasim Landscape
R&D Masonry Inc
Similar Projects
