Candor Electric Supports Major Facility Upgrades at Kenwood Academy High School
Candor Electric is proud to have served as the electrical contractor for a critical renovation project at Kenwood Academy High School in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, for the Public Building Commission of Chicago. Led by Milhouse Engineering & Construction, and Gilbane Construction, the project delivered targeted upgrades and repairs across the historic campus, improving safety, accessibility, and building performance—while preserving the school’s architectural character. This work was completed under a short timeframe and a limited budget, requiring close coordination, efficient phasing, and a clear focus on high-impact improvements. Candor Electric was honored to contribute to a project that directly benefits students, staff, and the broader Kenwood community.
Project Overview
Kenwood Academy High School is a landmark facility with decades of service to Chicago Public Schools. The renovation addressed immediate facility needs while ensuring upgrades met current city codes and ADA requirements. Milhouse provided architectural, structural, plumbing, mechanical, environmental, and construction administration services, serving as the architect of record for the improvements. Candor Electric partnered with Milhouse and fellow trades to modernize the school’s electrical infrastructure and life-safety systems. Our work supported both the visible improvements—such as lighting in upgraded spaces—and the behind-the-scenes systems that keep the building reliable and secure.
Candor Electric Scope of Work
Candor Electric delivered comprehensive electrical and low-voltage upgrades to support the project’s building improvements, including:
New ComEd Service: To improve capacity and reliability, our team installed a new ComEd service to meet the updated needs of the school. This upgrade provides a stronger foundation for future growth and modernization.
Expansion of Electrical Distribution System: We expanded the electrical distribution system to better serve renovated areas and new equipment loads. This included upgrades that enhance power routing, reliability, and maintainability across key zones of the building.
Lighting Upgrades: Candor Electric completed lighting upgrades throughout modernized spaces, improving visibility, safety, and overall user comfort. These enhancements support more functional athletic, restroom, and circulation environments.
Power for New Mechanical Equipment: Facility-wide mechanical improvements required significant new electrical support. We provided dedicated power infrastructure for new boilers, absorption chillers, and related DDC BAS components, helping stabilize building temperatures and improve energy performance.
Communications Systems: We upgraded and expanded communications systems to ensure stronger connectivity, improved operational coordination, and a better technology backbone for the school community.
Expansion of Fire Alarm System: Candor Electric expanded the fire alarm (F.A.) system, reinforcing life-safety coverage across renovated areas and ensuring compliance with current code requirements.
Working Within a Historic Facility
A defining feature of this renovation was the need to protect Kenwood Academy’s historic architectural details while implementing modern upgrades. Many ceiling and roof areas required targeted repair, and interior improvements had to align with the building’s existing character. Candor Electric’s team worked carefully within these constraints, routing new systems with precision, minimizing disruption to preserved features, and coordinating field decisions quickly with Milhouse and other trades. The result is a set of upgrades that respect the past while supporting today’s standards.
Collaboration
Executing a project of this complexity within a compressed schedule depends on teamwork. Candor Electric is grateful for the strong coordination among all trades and the leadership provided by Milhouse. Together, the team delivered upgrades that will:
Most importantly, these improvements help Kenwood Academy continue serving students in a facility that is safer, more functional, and better equipped for the future.
Candor Electric is committed to supporting educational facilities across Chicago with dependable electrical solutions that prioritize safety, performance, and long-term value. We’re proud to have contributed to the Kenwood Academy upgrades and to help sustain vital community institutions through our work.
