Board approves $1.14 million change order for Newport High School right‑of‑way improvements

The Bellevue School District Board of Directors approved Change Order 290 Oct. 14 for the Newport High School addition and renovation project, authorizing an additive cost of $1,136,023.46 to Cornerstone General Contractors to complete work required by the City of Bellevue as part of right‑of‑way improvements.

Assistant staff presenting the item said the change order pays for a retaining block wall, curbing, guardrail and fencing along Factoria Boulevard to address steep slopes and to accommodate right‑of‑way improvements such as wider sidewalks, landscape buffers and a Metro bus shelter. The presenter said the project is funded from voter‑approved, project‑specific bonds (February 2020) and the total project budget is $140 million; the district reported expended and encumbered amounts just over $131 million to date.

During discussion, board members asked whether the city would consider additional pedestrian safety measures around crosswalks and urged staff to coordinate with the city’s transportation department on signal timing and other improvements. Staff said they plan to work with the city on crosswalk safety and that the project remains on schedule for final completion in 2026; a potential replacement of existing tennis courts could be considered if budget allows.

Director Phil Block moved the change order; the motion passed by voice vote with all board members saying “aye.” The presenter told the board that, aside from the tennis court replacement, no other large change orders are anticipated at this time.