DEW Construction served as the Construction Manager for the new Groundworks Collaborative Shelter, a purpose‑built facility in Brattleboro, Vermont. The project represents a major investment in expanding and strengthening essential services for individuals experiencing homelessness in Windham County, while prioritizing safety, dignity, and long‑term sustainability.
The project included the new construction of a 10,720-square-foot shelter facility designed to accommodate up to 40 individuals, replacing Groundworks Collaborative’s former 30-bed Morningside House with an enhanced, more refined, and safer shelter program. The building was carefully planned to better support both residents and staff through improved functionality, visibility, and program integration.
The shelter includes bathrooms and showers, kitchen facilities, storage areas, and private meeting rooms for confidential, one-on-one case management and supportive services. The layout emphasized trauma-informed, accessible, and safety-focused design, creating an environment that promotes stability, respect, and effective service delivery. Dedicated community gathering spaces further support connection and a sense of belonging among residents.
Throughout construction, DEW collaborated closely with Groundworks Collaborative and the full project team to deliver a durable, thoughtfully designed facility that reflects the organization’s values and meets the needs of the community it serves. The project incorporated sustainable design strategies to reduce environmental impact while creating a welcoming, resilient space designed to serve Brattleboro for years to come.
