Construction partner reports phase progress and timeline; district eyes 2026 referendum window

District construction partners briefed trustees on capital-project progress and near-term milestones. The update said elementary-phase classrooms are either occupied or ready for occupancy and that an outlay project is mobilized with NCI Construction for utilities and foundations, aiming for a February 2025 milestone to enable facilities use.

Design-development estimates were shared: Phase 2 costs were reported in the update at approximately $28,974,000 and an updated design estimate for the Union Pleasant large project was shown around $21,426,000 (60% plans complete). The presenter said escalation factors on these later phases are not tracking as high as in prior phases, and added that increased bidder interest may be moderating price pressure.

Schedule highlights included a target for substantial completion of high-school work in September 2025 and planning that could position the district for a referendum vote and subsequent construction period beginning in summer 2028. Trustees asked about contingencies and noted the district has a remaining balancing contingency of roughly $1,000,000 in contract allowances; the construction team said they continue to settle contract values and track changes.

Next steps: the design package for Armor Elementary (phase 3 ceiling/lighting and playground work) will go to SED review in February, with a potential bid period in May and summer construction; long-range planning includes potential referendum timing in 2026 and subsequent construction through 2028–2030.