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Heights Elementary master plan and forestry grant: district seeks designs but construction funding not yet identified
Summary
Laredo ISD staff presented a schematic master plan for Heights Elementary that would create a forestry learning area using trees on purchased parcels. Staff said grant funds may cover limited demolition (asphalt/slabs) but not structures; construction funding would need to come from other sources (possible future bond).
LAREDO ISD — Trustees received a schematic master plan on Aug. 4 for Heights Elementary that pairs a Forestry Grant’s design work with a future campus playground, canopy and pick-up/drop-off improvements. Staff said demolition of structures that sit on parcels the district purchased off Market Street will be required to implement the grant-funded outdoor learning space; the grant will pay for some demolition (asphalt and slabs) but not for removing upper structures.
What staff said: Angel Velasquez explained the district owns the parcels and intends to preserve existing mature trees while turning the site into an outdoor instructional area for early grades. The plan envisions covered walkways that would connect the library and learning wings with the new outdoor area and a relocated playground. "We want to keep all of the trees and enhance this area with whatever monies they have for the grant and create this little forest and outdoor educational areas," Velasquez said.
Funding and next steps: staff summarized the Forestry Grant limitations: it can cover asphalt and slab demolition but not building demolition. Velasquez told trustees the district estimated demolition and asbestos abatement could cost roughly $150,000–$160,000 but said the district did not yet have firm funding identified for full construction; the master plan could be used to apply for grants or to position the project for a future bond.
Parking and program choices: trustees discussed whether to retain or remove a proposed small parking area in the schematic. Some trustees recommended removing the additional parking and locating a playground farther from the street for safety. Staff noted that the district could revise the schematic in coordination with campus stakeholders and the architect.
Community access and timeline: staff said design work can proceed so the district is “ready to go” should funding become available; however construction would require separate funding. Staff suggested the project could be included in a future capital bond or staged with other grant or district funds.
