District staff detail Ramirez Field upgrades, pool repairs and Wi-Fi improvements

Facilities staff (identified in the meeting as Erica) gave a progress report on multiple projects affecting athletic and instructional spaces.

On Ramirez Field, staff said the district had agreed to split the project 50/50 with the baseball program. The work includes installing a movable batting cage, a movable pen and adding a gate in the outfield to allow removal of a tarp that staff said umpires call a hazard. "We had already agreed to, split it 50 50 with baseball," the administrator said. Staff said the project cost rose above initial estimates and that Birmingham will not cover the full amount; part of the funding is expected from baseball fundraising and associated trust-account funds.

Facilities reported tree removals where roots were damaging planters and building foundations, asphalt repairs to address root damage, and ongoing coordination with an entity referenced in the transcript as "LUSC" about a drainage issue. Staff estimated the drainage work at approximately $200,000 and said they are "hoping for LUSC to pay this under the blueprint project." The report did not include a signed agreement or final funding commitments.

Pool staff removed fiberglass panels from the pool bulkhead for safety concerns and said they are reviewing replacement options with a lead time of about eight to ten weeks. A hired pool designer is awaiting required certification, and staff said pool work could start in March 2026 if certifications and schedules align.

Other updates included a main gym roofing project at about 95% completion, food-service equipment upgrades (an electric part to move food rather than staff pushing carts), and technology improvements: three wireless access points replaced, an additional access point at Ramirez Field, server upgrades, and copy-machine maintenance. Staff also discussed trialing a larger hotspot with multiple antennas for events where heavy Wi-Fi use has caused service problems.

The presentation did not include final contracts, firm budgets for all items, or firm schedules for when the Ramirez Field work will reach the board for final approval.