Pomona Unified board directs staff to develop Measure UU project scopes, with emphasis on safety, security and infrastructure

Pomona Unified School District trustees on Nov. 7 directed staff to develop detailed scopes, schedules and budgets for a prioritized set of Measure UU projects, with the immediate emphasis on health, safety and security improvements.

The district’s presentation by Mr. Knowles and representatives from LCC 3 and consultants described a conceptual project list to be converted into planned projects that will return to the board for formal approval. "Tonight, we're going to present the list of proposed projects, and then, again, as we develop the scope, the project schedule, and the budget, those items will come back before the board for an approval," Mr. Knowles said.

Why it matters: The board’s direction starts the detailed design and budgeting work needed before the district can issue construction contracts. Trustees said they want projects sequenced to match available bond issuance money and to avoid spending on sites that may be consolidated.

What staff proposed and the board’s direction

- Fire alarm upgrades: Staff identified a first‑phase package of fire alarm work across elementary schools and gave a conceptual estimate of about $15,000,000 for the package. The board asked for third‑party verification of system condition and code compliance, citing evolving technology and Title 24 code changes; Ed Cunningham (LCC 3) said industry practice often plans for replacement or major updates on a roughly five‑ to six‑year cycle. The board gave consensus for staff to return with scope, schedule and budget for the fire‑alarm list.

- Playgrounds and shade structures: Staff recommended…