School District outlines $195M bond project updates and summer renovation plans

The Birmingham Public Schools Board of Education meeting on March 17, 2025, focused on financial updates and ongoing construction projects within the district. Key discussions highlighted a significant increase in projected commitments and actual approved expenditures, with commitments rising by $2 million and actuals by $5.2 million since the last meeting.

The meeting detailed the status of the $195 million bond, which remains unchanged but includes various components beyond construction, such as furniture, fixtures, equipment, and design work for roofing and paving projects. Notably, the design prime costs increased by 10% due to recent approvals for parking lot projects.

Current design efforts are underway for several schools, with bi-weekly meetings held with principals from Beverly, Greenfield, Harlan, and Pembroke to plan for summer 2026 projects. Additionally, preparations for summer renovations are set to begin immediately after the school year ends, focusing on roof work at Derby, Pierce, Korton, and West Maple.

The district is gearing up for a busy summer, with renovations planned for nine buildings, including upgrades to the transportation lot and facilities building. Specific projects include the ongoing addition at Bingham Farms, where excavation has started, and various improvements such as painting and flooring updates scheduled for spring break.

The meeting also mentioned upcoming projects awaiting board approval, including the transportation parking lot and furniture procurement for middle schools. The district anticipates sharing more visual updates in June as projects progress.