Board approves $285,000 contingency increase after contamination found at transportation lot
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Summary
The board voted 5–0 to increase the construction contingency by $285,000 to cover discovery and proper disposal of contaminated soil at the district transportation lot; staff said work is required to comply with EGLE and state regulations and to keep the paving project on schedule.
The Birmingham Public Schools Board of Education on Aug. 26 approved a $285,000 increase in the construction contingency for paving improvements at the district transportation center after contractors discovered soil contamination at the site.
Scott Smith, invited to the podium during the business‑services presentation, told the board that excavation for paving uncovered contaminated soil from activity predating the school district’s purchase of the property. The soil must be disposed of according to state environmental rules, which added unexpected cost to the project.
"That is necessitating some additional cost because that contaminated soil is required to be disposed of properly," Scott Smith said. The district said it has been working with an environmental consultant and will follow guidance from EGLE and state regulations.
Business services staff said the contingency increase is needed to keep the project on schedule and ready for the first day of school. The resolution requested an adjustment of $285,000 to the construction contingency; Trustee Samet moved the resolution and Trustee Tijani seconded. The motion passed by a roll call vote of 5 to 0.
Officials told the board the bond oversight committee reviewed the situation in detail before the approval. No additional contract awards were approved at the Aug. 26 meeting beyond the contingency adjustment.