Naperville 203 approves Kennedy PLTW upgrades and transportation facility bids

The Naperville CUSD 203 Board of Education approved multiple capital bids at its Feb. 17 meeting, including contractor packages for Kennedy Junior High and a new transportation facility.

Administration presented 15 bid packages for Kennedy Junior High to renovate project-based learning (PLTW) and family and consumer science (FACS) spaces with contractor amounts totaling $3,893,318. Administration said the total Kennedy project estimate, including architecture, furniture and construction management, had previously been about $7,000,000.

Board members debated timing and priorities given the district's capital outlay totals and the broader fund-balance discussion. Kelly Black said she objected to adding to capital spending while the district faces capital-related budget strain; other members noted these projects were previously approved as part of a multi-year facilities plan and are one-time investments in instructional spaces.

The board also approved the bid for a new transportation facility. Presenters said existing facilities had reached a tipping point, citing ongoing rental costs and unsafe temporary conditions; members cited estimated energy-efficiency features (solar, heat pumps) and long-term savings. One board member noted the facility will eliminate roughly $3,000 a month in rental expenses and provide a safer, year-round workspace for transportation staff.

Both the Kennedy packages and the transportation facility bid passed by roll call; Kelly Black recorded a 'nay' on some capital approvals and reiterated concerns about fund-accounting clarity. Board members and staff said the projects will be funded from the district's fund balance as a one-time capital draw and that contract-close and implementation details will be tracked by the facilities and finance teams.