Project Status
Spring Break Closure:
Water main utility work will close the entire East parking lot and sidewalks from March 28th through April 5th over Spring Break.
Indoor Air Sampling:
The district has received inquiries regarding documented radon levels at existing schools, particularly those located adjacent to construction sites. More information regarding AAPS radon testing can be found on the Assessments & Surveys web page.
Construction Access:
Construction parking and construction access drives are for construction personnel only and to ensure safety, staff and parents should refrain from using construction parking and/or drives.
New Dicken News – March 2026
- All bus traffic will use the North lot from Carol Drive. No student drop-off or pick-up.
- See below in magenta dashed lines.
- All student drop-off and pick-up will use the East lot (Main entrance) off Runnymede. Driveline will operate for all grades at this location.
- See below in orange dashes lines.
- Both parking lots will be STAFF ONLY.
- Families will need to use the local residential streets if you wish to walk your child in, or for longer school visits (Ex. Volunteering in the classroom)
- During the school day between 9:00 am – 3:00 pm the front drive will only be available for a quick pick-up or drop-off. This is not intended to be a parking space. Please park on a residential street if you are at Dicken for more than 5 minutes.
- The west pathway from Dicken Drive will remain closed through late April and walkers should plan to enter from Runnymede. The East school sidewalks will reopen after Spring Break.
- Foundation work is ongoing.
- Forming and setting elevator shafts.
- Water main utility work will continue.
- Reminder: Dicken Drive will remain open to local vehicle traffic only, while work continues through mid May.
- Spring Break Closure: Water main utility work will close the entire East parking lot and sidewalks from March 28th through April 5th over Spring Break.
Updates
New Dicken PTO Board Presentations
Installation of the water main utility to the new Dicken Elementary will start on Dicken Drive as early as March 16 and will last for approximately 2 months.
- Dicken Drive will remain open to local traffic only.
Board of Education Meeting – Capital Program Fall Update
Board of Education Meeting – Capital Program Annual Report
Community Engagement with Parents, Student, Staff
Project Kick-off
Projects
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New Dicken Elementary
Architect of Record: DLR Group
Construction Manager: Brix Corporation
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Community Update - New Dicken Elementary
Ann Arbor Public Schools plans to construct a New Dicken Elementary, with related site improvements, slated for groundbreaking as early as Spring 2025. Please join us for a Bond Project Update, we will have Phase 2 Bond Plan background information and a conceptual site plan to share.Come to the school’s main entry and you will be directed to the space in the building where the update is being held. We look forward to seeing you!
Monday, September 9, 2024 from 5:30pm to 7pm
Dicken Elementary: 2135 Runnymeade Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
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A/C and Lighting Upgrades
Addition of air conditioning and replacement of existing lights with LED light fixtures. Classrooms to have a dimmable lighting system and new ceiling tiles.
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Paving Project
Remove & replace existing drop off loops located at schools. Add storm water and pedestrian crossings.
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Window Shades
New window shades added to the building
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Roofing Upgrades
Construction/repairs of school roof.
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HVAC Building Management System Upgrades
Updated the school’s Building Management System (BMS) to the latest version including a new graphical interface and mobile, cloud-based access. The upgrades allow for better systems control, improved occupant comfort and energy efficiency.
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Water Bottle Filling Stations
Installation of filtered water bottle filling stations throughout the school.
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Security Updates
Update to security system on property.
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Playground Shaded Trees
Planted 21 native hardwood trees for shading of playgrounds and other outdoor environments.
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New Playgrounds
New upper and lower elementary playgrounds were added. New equipment includes sensory waves, hexamid climbers, platforms, slides, climbing net, rings and swings.
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New Musical Instruments
Purchase of new musical instruments and pianos for music classrooms and auditoriums.
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Parking Lot Reconstruction
Repair of pavement and parking lot on school grounds.
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New Classroom Furniture
New, flexible, classroom furniture was added to create a more accessible, engaging and student-centered environment.
Photos & Videos
Photos
Videos
Timeline
Dicken Elementary
- Built In 1957
- Grades Young 5-5th
- School Website
Dicken Elementary, originally constructed in 1957, is a one-story masonry structure with exterior brick veneer. The school facility is situated on 10 acres in the west sector of Ann Arbor. The original structure has experienced at least 1 addition over the years, and currently supports Y5 – Grade 5.