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Northside pitches 30‑acre Outdoor Learning Center near McAndrew Elementary; board hears master‑plan and permitting issues
Summary
Elementary science staff proposed a district Outdoor Learning Center on land adjacent to McAndrew Elementary (about 30 acres) with wetlands, trails, pavilions and classroom space; trustees were briefed on partnerships (Lake Flato), estimated capital and operating needs, permitting (TCEQ), and a phased fundraising approach.
District elementary science staff presented a concept and early master plan for a Northside Outdoor Learning Center on roughly 30 acres adjacent to McAndrew Elementary. Presenters (elementary science specialists and environmental-education staff) described the site’s unique ecology (Edwards Aquifer recharge zone and two converging ecoregions) and outlined a phased plan that could include trails, native-plant gardens, wetland/aquatic study areas, pavilions, two classrooms and water‑testing stations.
Partnerships and planning: Staff reported initial fundraising conversations and an invitation to Lake Flato to provide visioning and concept design through a pro‑bono/partnership arrangement and said communications produced a short video to help fundraising. They also said they plan to pursue grants and a five‑year sustainability plan to underwrite annual operating costs.
Costs and permitting: Presenters listed a one‑time capital budget (phased) and an estimated annual operating-cost target (presented as an estimate around $9 million annually for full operation in one slide; staff indicated the figure is an operational planning placeholder that will be refined). Facilities staff flagged permitting issues because the site sits in an Edwards Aquifer recharge/contributing zone and noted wastewater and state (TCEQ) sewer permits will be required. Trustees asked for cost‑benefit comparisons (transportation, cost savings for field trips, and potential revenue if other districts use the center) and for phased cost models.
Next steps: Staff recommended a master‑planning workshop with Lake Flato and a fundraising plan to begin in 2026, followed by a phased capital and operating plan and continued permitting coordination with TCEQ and facilities.
