Port Angeles board approves GCCM approach, architects and two athletic projects

The Port Angeles School District board on Dec. 11 voted to adopt a general‑contractor/construction‑management (GCCM) approach for upcoming school construction and approved architects and supplemental athletic projects as the district advances work funded by last year’s bond.

Board members approved the GCCM procurement model after hearing a detailed progress report from capital projects director Nolan Deuce, who described work at Hurricane Ridge Middle School and plans for Franklin Elementary and the high school. Deuce told the board the Hurricane Ridge site has brace frames and footings in place, three retaining‑wall pours completed and mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure underway. “The building is a three‑story … it’s going to be 44 feet high,” Deuce said, describing the steel framing and concrete decks.

Why it matters: GCCM lets the board select a contractor early so the contractor can advise on constructability and value engineering during design, Deuce said, a model the district argues reduces costly change orders on complex, occupied sites. The board noted PRC (state) approval was obtained to use GCCM for the upcoming projects.

What the board approved: Integris was authorized as the architect for the Port Angeles High School project and TCF for Franklin Elementary after PACAC (Port Angeles Capital Advisory Committee) reviews and interviews. The board also approved two site additions: Monroe Field Phase 2 (including permitted conduits and infrastructure already installed for eventual lighting and scoreboard) and a six‑lane, pervious track at Hurricane Ridge Middle School. Deuce warned the track will require significant earthwork to overcome a 6‑foot elevation difference on the field and discussed stormwater/pervious surfacing choices.

Budget and risk controls: Deuce said cost controls are in place; he reported a contractor contingency that began at roughly $1.57 million currently sits near $1.27 million and owner allowances remain available. For unpredictable gym work, he said the board included a $350,000 allowance in the guaranteed maximum price to cover discovery‑phase conditions.

Next steps: With GCCM authorized, staff said they plan to release a GCCM RFP and score proposals on qualifications, fee and general conditions. Board members said they expect the district to break work into bid packages to maximize local participation and reduce risks for large single‑prime contracts. Architect teams will continue working with PACACs and the district to refine ed‑specs and collect community input at upcoming events including the district winter concert, where architects will host a public input table.

The board approved the measures by roll call/raised‑hand votes and moved these projects into the procurement phase.