La Porte ISD bond projects: Lomax, stadium and Legacy Complex progressing; competition gym renovation slated for 2026

Facilities staff gave trustees a multi-site bond update on Feb. 11, reporting progress at the Lomax campus, stadium, Legacy Complex and outlining plans to renovate the high school interior and the competition gym.

Superintendent Doctor Jackson provided the update and said Lomax work is advancing despite rain, with drainage, sewer and underground electrical work underway and pier pours planned. On the stadium, Jackson said track and turf installation components are complete, contractors have applied infill layers and will return to finish surface work, and kitchen and concession equipment is arriving. He said fencing, bleacher transitions and speaker installations are among final tasks.

Jackson described visible changes at the Legacy Complex, with walls and locker rooms being finished and terrazzo flooring and HVAC systems in place. He said the competition-gym renovation is scheduled to begin summer 2026 and run about 12 weeks; the project will address termite damage to portions of the gym floor, replace or refinish flooring as needed, remove interior walls, improve lighting and ductwork, and reconfigure locker/PE/cheer spaces.

The superintendent explained that temporary modular classrooms (portable trailers) will be sited next to the detention area to house administrative functions and nurses during renovation. He said the district will pay for portables from bond funds. Jackson also noted drainage improvements in the courtyard will include subsurface systems under turf to capture standing water.

Library staff member Julie reported that the district completed a full inventory of campus libraries in January and is developing a five-year plan to restore collections and equity across campuses. She said funds have been allocated and the district will begin ordering books in February; the plan includes evaluating physical collections against Texas Library Association standards and expanding access to e-books and technology for student access.

Trustees asked about timelines for demo and completion; Jackson said demolition of parts of the field house is scheduled for the summer after graduation and that new parking and other site work should be ready before school starts (weather permitting). He confirmed the stadium and fieldhouse additions will increase insurance premiums once added to the district property schedule, and that portables are an eligible bond expense.

No final board action was required for the presentation; staff will return with additional scheduling and implementation details.