05/14/2026
At Highland Elementary School in Lewistown, Missouri, safety and resilience are taking shape through the addition of a FEMA 361 safe room designed to protect students and staff during severe weather events. The project represents an important investment in both community preparedness and the long-term strength of the school campus.
The new storm shelter is being built on the north side of the existing elementary school, where it will connect directly to the current structure. This placement allows the shelter to function as an integrated part of the campus while providing fast, reliable access when hazardous conditions arise.
The shelter itself is built with precast structural concrete units engineered, fabricated, and installed to demanding standards for quality, safety, and performance. Each 12-inch-thick precast wall panel includes a 6-inch interior structural concrete face, 2 inches of insulation, and a 4-inch exterior architectural sandblast concrete face, combining durability with energy-conscious design.
To ensure dependable performance, the concrete is specified at a minimum compressive strength of 5,000 psi at 28 days and is reinforced with ASTM-compliant bars, wires, and welded wire reinforcement. Together, these materials create a structure built to withstand extreme conditions while meeting rigorous construction standards.
Estimated Completion August, 2026.
Project Architect: incite Design Studio, LLC 1800 Lafayette Avenue, Suite B St. Louis, MO 63104.
