Warner Construction wins bid for Mountain Ridge Primary School with 30 classrooms planned

Berkeley County Schools has taken significant steps towards enhancing educational facilities during its recent Board of Education meeting on April 17, 2025. The board approved a base bid of $23,593,700 to Warner Construction for the construction of the new Mountain Ridge Primary School, which will feature 24 classrooms designed to accommodate up to 508 students. This decision is pivotal as it aims to address the growing student population in the area.

In addition to the base bid, the board discussed the potential addition of six classrooms at a cost of $1,383,200, which would increase the school's capacity to 648 students. This proposal reflects the district's proactive approach to future enrollment projections, which anticipate a significant increase in student numbers over the coming years.

The meeting also highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements, including a traffic impact study for Route 51, which may necessitate the construction of a turning lane to facilitate better access to the new school and alleviate traffic congestion. Furthermore, the board is addressing water pressure concerns that could affect the school's compliance with safety codes, with potential costs for necessary upgrades included in the project budget.

In a related development, the board approved the purchase of 1.82 acres of land behind Inwood Primary School for $210,000. This acquisition will expedite the construction of the new Inwood Early Learning Academy, allowing it to open two years ahead of schedule and help alleviate overcrowding in existing schools.

The meeting concluded with personnel actions, including the appointment of a new deputy superintendent and several coaching and teaching positions, underscoring the district's commitment to enhancing its educational staff as it prepares for these significant infrastructure developments.

These decisions mark a crucial investment in the future of education in Berkeley County, aiming to provide adequate facilities and resources for a growing student population while ensuring safety and accessibility.