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Multiple capital projects underway; district says referendum elementary site delayed by wetlands appeal
Summary
Facilities staff reported progress on multiple construction projects and renovations and said the planned referendum elementary school site (Yerby tract) remains delayed while the developer appeals a federal wetlands classification; district estimates conveyance and construction timelines and warns guaranteed maximum prices may rise.
District facilities leaders updated the board Sept. 8 on new construction, roofing, HVAC, restroom and other renovation projects and reported a delay to a referendum‑funded elementary school site because of a federal wetlands appeal.
Tony Soules, director in the facilities division, said several projects are in active construction or permitting: Sand Hill Elementary (dry‑in and finish work), Somerville Elementary (permits approved and preconstruction begun), Ashley Ridge High School phases (awaiting Office of State Fire Marshal review), a Summerville High School gym schematic and an Oakbrook Elementary structural masonry sequence. Jeff Smith, facilities project manager, added that roofing, restroom and HVAC projects are scheduled to proceed through seasonal breaks when needed to minimize classroom disruption.
On the referendum elementary school that was planned for the Yerby tract, Superintendent Daugherty reported the developer is appealing an Army Corps of Engineers wetlands classification for the site. “We're not sure when this is going to happen if when this land will be conveyed over,” Daugherty said, and the district’s photo evidence showed no site clearing as of Sept. 3. Facilities staff noted that if conveyance is delayed, guaranteed maximum pricing for construction is likely to increase: the district estimated 18 months from receipt of land to construction completion for some parcels but said other tracts could be 36 months out if due diligence has not yet begun.
Board members and staff emphasized contingency planning, saying the district is pursuing alternate parcels and temporary classroom options so referendum funds committed by voters will be used to address growth even if the original site is delayed.
Facilities staff also said they are addressing historically small staff restrooms and ADA upgrades during renovations, and noted some door and roof projects were delayed by manufacturer or permitting timelines but remain on the schedule for upcoming breaks.
