PRESS RELEASE: New Norton Elementary School Tops Off, Moves Closer to 2026 Opening

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PRESS RELEASE: New Norton Elementary School Tops Off, Moves Closer to 2026 Opening

Cheshire, CT –O&G Industries, construction manager for the Norton Elementary School project, proudly marked a major milestone on June 12 with a topping-off ceremony celebrating the completion of the building’s structural steel framework.

The event was attended by a broad group of community stakeholders, including Peter Talbot, Cheshire Town Council Chair; Samantha Rosenberg, Chair of the Board of Education; Jeff Solan, Superintendent of Schools; representatives from the project’s architect, Tecton Architects, and members of the Building Committee. Community members, Norton teachers, and over 400 students also joined in the celebration.

A highlight of the ceremony was the raising of the final steel beam—signed by all Norton students and staff during their annual Field Day on June 4—creating a lasting connection between the school community and the new facility.

Slated to open in Fall 2026, the $76 million new Norton Elementary School is being constructed as part of Cheshire’s broader School Modernization Plan. The school’s nature-inspired “Woods and Trails” theme will be reflected throughout the building’s design, which includes a central courtyard, media center, gymnasium, and dedicated music and art spaces—all created to support creativity, collaboration, and connection to the natural environment.

In addition to its modern learning spaces, the school is being built with a strong focus on sustainability. It will feature a hybrid geothermal heating and cooling system and include infrastructure to accommodate future solar panels, supporting Cheshire’s long-term environmental and energy-efficiency goals.

“We’re proud to celebrate this important milestone with the Cheshire community,” said Ryan Benit, Senior Project Manager of O&G Industries. “This project is more than just a building—it’s a symbol of progress and investment in the future of education in this town.”

Construction will continue into 2026, with substantial completion expected by mid-year and the school opening its doors that fall.

Media contact:
Eliza Baron, Marketing & Communications Manager, O&G Industries
860.626.9725, elizabaron@ogind.com

About O&G Industries
O&G Industries is a diversified construction company committed to delivering comprehensive site development, building construction, heavy civil, and material supply services throughout the Northeast. With a legacy spanning over 100 years, O&G combines deep industry expertise with innovative solutions to serve a broad range of markets including education, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, transportation, power, and municipal sectors nationwide—with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Headquartered in Torrington, Connecticut, O&G Industries is dedicated to building strong communities through responsible construction and exceptional client partnerships. Learn more at ogind.com.

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