A $56.2 million construction project scheduled to be completed in time for the 2012 school year at Wayland High School has begun.

The school project includes 160,000 square feet of new construction and 40,000 square feet of renovation, according to a statement. Cambridge-based HMFH Architects designed the project; Boston-based KVAssoc. is the owner’s project manager; and Boston-based Shawmut Design and Construction is the construction manager at risk under the state’s new construction statute.

"This long-awaited project will ensure that the town of Wayland continues its tradition of excellence in delivering quality education," said Gary Burton, superintendent of the Wayland Public Schools. "Our building committee has been working closely with HMFH Architects since 2004 to define the best ways to modernize our physical facilities so that our already successful school can continue to thrive and excel. We are confident that this construction process will result in a superior new high school."

New construction and renovation for the three-building campus includes an academic building and a commons building linked by an open courtyard, and renovation of the existing 40,000-square-foot field house, according to a statement. There will also be a 600-seat auditorium, student dining commons, a music suite, art studios and fitness studio.