District 203 proposes $14.8M–$17.4M transportation facility; board to consider Aug. 4

Naperville Community Unit School District 203 administrators told the board July 14 they will ask trustees on Aug. 4 to approve replacing an aging transportation trailer complex with a new facility at the district's Fifth Avenue site, estimating the project's initial cost at $14.8 million to $17.4 million. The district described the project as a one-time capital expenditure identified under board policy 04-20, which directs that fund balance above the policy's 10%–20% range be considered for taxpayer relief, capital projects or seed funding for new initiatives. Administrators said the current transportation offices are portable trailers that have exceeded their useful life and create operational and safety challenges. "The trailer that houses our transportation department has extended beyond its life; it needs to be replaced," Superintendent Dan Bridges said. Bridges said the plan would consolidate mechanics, offices and bus parking; add restrooms and workspace for professional learning; and accommodate electrification for…