District staff recommend low bidders for Fritz Elementary renovation; combined primes total about $28.1 million

District representatives presented the board with bid results for the Fritz Elementary School renovation, recommending the low bidders for several prime contracts and one alternate.

According to the recommendation letter and the bid tab, staff listed low bidders for general construction, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, food service and roofing primes and presented one recommended alternate under the general contract for a mill-and-overlay of the rear parking lot behind the gym. The packet also included separately solicited asbestos-abatement bids and pricing for a separate mechanical-equipment purchase program that staff said could reduce cost and accelerate the project schedule.

A presenter said the summary sheet shows a combined contract total ‘‘on the bottom right of about 28,100,000.0’’ and noted the bid tab lists all bidders and alternates. Board members asked about contractor familiarity; staff said most contractors have prior district or regional experience though the recommended general contractor had not served on a major district project and staff and outside consultants reported positive references from neighboring districts (Ephrata, Gettysburg, Central Dauphin and Lancaster Catholic projects were cited).

Why it matters: The package represents a significant capital outlay and will guide construction contracting and scheduling for Fritz Elementary. Board members indicated plans for a site tour of ongoing Leola work and an expectation that further details (award and contract language) will return for formal action at a later meeting.

Next steps: Staff will return with contract-award recommendations and supporting documents; asbestos abatement low bidder and mechanical-equipment procurement options were presented as separate items.