District updates board on 2022 and 2024 referendum construction progress and recent bid awards

District capital project staff updated the board March 10 on the status of construction and bidding for projects funded by the 2022 and 2024 referendums.

2022 referendum: Staff said several projects remain in design or preconstruction and noted awarded work underway on HVAC upgrades, gym updates and distribution center additions. The West Stadium grandstand work will reengage in spring; the city is installing speed‑safety signs funded in part by the 2022 referendum.

2024 referendum: Staff described the early phases and phasing schedule for the 2024 referendum projects, including Chapel Elementary, Doty Elementary, the new Westside elementary and Washington Middle School work slated to begin this spring/summer. The first award presented from the 2024 referendum was for Washington Middle School secure entrance and restroom renovation; district staff said the project received 19 qualified bids and was awarded to the lowest qualified bidder. Staff also reported that geothermal well drilling packages for the new elementary were competitively bid and awarded to a contractor able to meet an accelerated schedule.

Why it matters: The referendum projects affect multiple school facilities and neighborhoods; staff said they will return with additional construction progress reports and timing details at future work sessions.

Board questions: Trustees asked for the anticipated start date for West Stadium grandstand completion; staff said contractor coordination for cell‑tower equipment relocation and footing work is under way with meetings scheduled and that a more precise schedule would be available by the district’s next update.

Sources and evidence: presentation by referendum/construction staff; Q&A during the facilities update.