Gerena Community School | Springfield, MA

Architect: Caolo & Bieniek Assoc.

GC: Marois Construction

Completed summer 2013

The City of Springfield’s German Gerena Community School, in one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods, was targeted for improvement. The building itself is not just a school – it is also home to a large underground tunnel that allows local residents to cross under Interstate 91. Influenced by Dr. Seuss, the goal of the project was to replace the dark, dreary tunnel with a fun, uplifting space for all to enjoy. M. Frank Higgins installed playful rubber tiles to create a unique, “Whoville,” floor design that illuminated the underground space.