Eastman Cooke Begins Pre-Construction for Redevelopment of Flagship School for Association of Children with Down Syndrome

Premier construction firm commences repurposing of former Plainview elementary school, providing essential upgrades and improvements

PLAINVIEW, N.Y. (December 15, 2021) – Eastman Cooke & Associates, a construction company based in Long Island and Manhattan, has begun the reconstruction of the main campus of the Association of Children with Down Syndrome (“ACDS”) at 4 Fern Place in Plainview, Long Island. The approximately 60,000-square-foot, two-story, circa 1950s former elementary school is home to the educational center and flagship preschool for the organization and is undergoing a comprehensive renovation that will provide much needed upgrades. In addition to infrastructure modernizations, Eastman Cooke is responsible for the facade work, drainage, parking lot improvements, and renovations to the classrooms and several multi-purpose areas. The project also entails replacing the facility’s main entrance to provide a more welcoming and cheerful experience. Currently in pre-construction stages, the work is being implemented around classrooms that are in session.

“We are thrilled to help this amazing organization provide an encouraging and uplifting environment for the students, their families, and staff,” points out Peter Morandi, CEO, LEED AP, Eastman Cooke. “Every consultant and sub-contractor on the team is committed to going above and beyond to ensure this project is completed quickly and safely for everyone.”

Working with Eastman Cooke on the project are TPG Architecture, Key Civil Engineering, and Cardoza Plumbing. Throughout the construction process, clinics and classes at the facility will continue for the students, who comprise young children with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Speech and Language Delays, and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

ACDS was founded in 1966 by a group of parents on Long Island seeking services for their young children with Down Syndrome. Today, its programs are delivered in a variety of settings that include the educational center and flagship preschool in Plainview, a special needs preschool in Westchester County, and two adult Day Habilitation programs in Plainview and Merrick, LI. ACDS also provides services in individual family homes, community-based programs, and Individualized Residential Alternative group homes with a current capacity to serve more than 1,000 people, collectively.

Mr. Morandi has been a member of the ACDS Board of Directors for more than five years.
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About Eastman Cooke & Associates
Eastman Cooke & Associates is a New York-based, general contracting and construction management founded by Peter Morandi, Chief Executive Officer, LEED AP. A leader in sustainability and innovative practices, such as its proprietary Work Smart System, Eastman Cooke projects encompass ground-up construction, renovations, and upgrades. Its diverse project portfolio includes everything from corporate interiors, massive auto dealerships, specialty retail, and non-profit offices, to healthcare facilities, hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, laboratories, and more. Since its inception in 2009, the firm has maintained a credo of strong client relationships, trusting partnerships with consultants, and a commitment to providing unparalleled service.