Board awards $372,570 contract for Gardiner Bullis parking‑lot paving and ADA upgrades

The board approved a $372,570 contract with Tri Valley Excavating Company to complete paving, ADA upgrades and associated repairs at the Gardiner Bullis school parking lot.

Why the work was needed: A prior shade-structure project funded by the PTA required DSA review; DSA review identified ADA upgrades to the parking lot and a subsequent civil-engineering review required changes to as-built conditions. The district rebid the resulting scope and added additional pavement repairs to improve efficiency.

Procurement details: After rebidding, the apparent low responsive bidder was Tri Valley Excavation. Staff said they held a post-bid interview, confirmed the contractor’s school-project experience, and scheduled the work for July so the district avoids disruption during active school days. The project must also receive final sign-off from the Division of State Architect (DSA), and staff estimated six to eight weeks for final DSA approval and certification after construction completion.

Board action: The motion to approve the contract was made by Vladimir and seconded by Stella and passed unanimously.

Questions from trustees: A trustee asked about asphalt color and heat-island concerns; staff said the surface will be standard asphalt and noted the new shade structure will provide shade to reduce heat. Trustees asked whether final DSA sign-off will come before school starts; staff said there is typically a short lag after construction for final paperwork but they planned to complete construction in July so the playground and parking-lot work should be functionally ready before school begins.

Ending: The board approved the contract and staff will coordinate timing with the school and DSA to minimize disruption.