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Board approves Southwest Elementary schematic, awards CMR contract for renovation
Summary
The Southwest ISD board approved schematic design drawings for Southwest Elementary and awarded a construction-manager-at-risk contract to Bartlett Cocke General Contractors for $1,719,468, with funding from the 2023 bond. Staff said the project includes HVAC, security, interior finishes and a secure lobby.
Southwest ISD trustees on Tuesday approved schematic design drawings for the renovation of Southwest Elementary and awarded the construction-manager-at-risk (CMR) contract to Bartlett Cocke General Contractors.
The board voted to adopt the schematic plans as presented by Garza Baumberger and then approved Bartlett Cocke for the CMR role. District staff told trustees they received five proposals for the project, with preconstruction fees ranging roughly from $1.72 million to $2.07 million; staff recommended Bartlett Cocke as best value. The board approved the contract amount of $1,719,468 to be paid from the district's 2023 bond funds.
Why it matters: The renovation is intended to replace rooftop HVAC units, upgrade the PA and fire-alarm systems, modernize classrooms, install new flooring and technology, create a secure lobby with a bullet-resistant transaction window, and add interior sports flooring. District presenters said the work will improve safety, instructional spaces and site circulation around the campus.
Garza Baumberger presenter Jorge Flores summarized major interior and exterior changes: “We're gonna replace the air conditioning. The entire rooftop units are gonna be new,” and said the project will include a new PA system, upgraded fire alarms and technology, renovated restrooms and improved library and cafeteria spaces. Flores also described a secure vestibule and a bullet-resistant transaction window at the main entry.
Contract details and schedule: District staff told the board they expect to move from construction documents to GMP negotiations and permitting in coming months with an anticipated GMP in October. The awarded preconstruction/CMR fee covers the preconstruction phase; final construction costs will be set after the GMP process.
What the board decided next: Trustees approved the schematic drawings and the CMR award on separate voice votes. No member requested further delay in either action.
What's next: Staff will return with GMP and permitting updates as the project advances and will present any required contract or budget changes to the board.
