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MMSD says referendum projects are on track for 2027 occupancy, highlights geothermal and solar plans

Madison Metropolitan School District Operations Work Group · January 13, 2026
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Summary

District staff told the board phase‑1 referendum projects are in late design and moving to the bidding stage; geothermal wells and substantial rooftop solar are planned, with groundbreaking set for March 20, 2026 and target occupancy in August 2027.

District facilities staff updated the Madison Metropolitan School District board Jan. 12 on the 2024 referendum projects, reporting phase‑1 construction documents at 95% completion, early bid awards (steel and precast foundations), and a planned groundbreaking on March 20, 2026.

Scott Chiak said the district has spent about $6.7 million to date on architect fees, construction management and pre‑procurement for phase 1, and that the construction teams are staggering bid packages to avoid two schools competing for the same trades in the same market window. He said phase‑1 occupancy is targeted for August 2027 and that community input sessions are scheduled in late January.

On sustainability, Chiak said all new schools will include geothermal wells and substantial solar arrays; envelope designs are “LEED‑capable” but the district is prioritizing direct reinvestment into solar and geothermal rather than pursuing formal LEED certification. He also described contingency planning — roughly $5 million per building set aside — and noted coordination with the City of Madison on stormwater and traffic mitigations.

Board members asked about site accessibility (elevators, accessible parking), playgrounds and preservation of murals and art; Chiak said the district is cataloging and planning to preserve movable art and build places for permanent displays in new construction. Staff described active outreach plans including recorded input sessions and targeted engagement with principals, alders and neighborhood groups.

What happens next: bid packages and further design details will return to the board; staff encouraged community participation in the Jan. input sessions and noted a staged schedule for bids that will roll into construction in early 2026.