Bohler Supports New Student Center at Central Catholic High School 

As Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, PA, approaches its 100th anniversary, it has outlined a 10-year master plan for major campus upgrades at its Oakland campus.  

The plan includes three key phases, with the most significant project being a new student center to replace an outdated gymnasium. 

Brothers’ Residence Renovation Under Construction

The first phase focused on renovating the De La Salle Christian Brothers’ residence, including modernized bedrooms, improved accessibility with ramps and elevators, and new administrative office space on the first floor and basement. Construction is currently underway. 

Designing the New Student Center

Bohler’s Pittsburgh team is driving the site civil design and permitting for Phase 2 of the campus redevelopment — a new, state-of-the-art student center that will replace the existing 1978 gym. Designed to elevate the student experience, the facility will house a gymnasium, locker rooms, weight room, cafeteria and kitchen, lecture and classrooms, administrative offices, and a TV studio. It will also feature underground parking and a pedestrian bridge to the main school building, improving campus safety and circulation. 

Delivering this vision requires extensive site work, including major utility upgrades, stormwater management solutions, and demolition to make way for the parking garage. The nearly century-old campus presents unique infrastructure challenges — such as achieving the architect’s target finished floor elevation and integrating modern utilities — necessitating close coordination with structural, MEP, and utility consultants. In addition to leading civil design and permitting efforts, Bohler is providing planning, landscape architecture, and design services, and is adeptly navigating updated city review processes and NPDES requirements to keep the project moving forward. 

Looking Ahead: HVAC and Accessibility Upgrades

The final phase will focus on HVAC improvements, new elevators, and accessibility upgrades to the third and fourth floors of the main building. Some interior spaces will also be reconfigured once the student center is completed. 

Follow the project here.