Mesquite ISD approves schematic design for new elementary to replace Motley and Lawrence; project capacity set at 700–750 students
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Summary
The board approved the schematic design for a replacement elementary on the Motley site, including site circulation, secure play areas, community access to a standalone cafeteria, a projected GMP of $61.4 million, and a total project cost estimate of $68 million; construction expected to begin late 2026 with occupancy by 2028.
The Mesquite Independent School District Board of Trustees voted to approve the schematic design for a new elementary school that will replace Motley and Lawrence elementaries.
Graham Bowman of WRA Architects presented the schematic design and design process, noting community input gathered in an October charrette that produced five guiding principles: a community hub at the heart of the school, distinct learning communities for upper and lower grades, flexible collaborative spaces, outdoor spaces and natural light, and secure circulation. The team recommended building the new school on the Motley site while keeping both existing campuses operational during construction and pursuing a land swap with the city to convert the Lawrence site to a park after the new campus opens.
Key design and program elements: a primary parent drop-off lane on Moon Drive, a dedicated bus drop-off and fire-lane access on the north side, two distinct playgrounds separated by age groups, a cafeteria with an after-hours entrance for community use, and an educational layout with pre-K through fifth-grade wings. The design team listed a functional capacity of 700–750 students.
Estimated costs and schedule provided to the board: a planning-level GMP of $61,400,000 and a total project-cost estimate of $68,000,000; the project was planned to be bid in September, start construction near the end of 2026, and complete in time for the 2028 school year.
Trustees approved the schematic design by voice vote (mover: Mr. Everett; second: Mr. Bingham). Trustees asked about drainage and traffic; the architect said they had met with city staff and planned an on-site detention pond and a traffic study as part of design development.
What happens next: administration and architects will refine design documents, finalize the traffic and stormwater work with city agencies, and return with bidding and construction schedules.