Capitol Heights bid comes in under budget; Percy Julian project 24% complete, board told
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Summary
Volkert told the Montgomery Public Schools board the Percy Julian project is 24% complete and Russell Construction submitted the low base bid of $43.4 million for Capitol Heights; alternates raise the bid to $46.6 million, still under the district’s $47 million budget.
At the March 10, 2026 work session, a Volkert representative updated the Montgomery Public Schools board on capital improvements and reported progress and bid results for two major projects.
The representative said overall Percy Julian construction is about 24% complete and that three days were added to the schedule because of rain in February. Construction milestones included poured second-floor slabs in Areas A and B, ongoing interior CMU walls, structural steel erection in Area C, and MEP rough-in in the kitchen and auditorium. He showed progress and aerial photos including retention-pond locations and noted the storm shelter work and slab scheduling.
On Capitol Heights, the consultant reported three competitive bids were received. The district had announced a planning budget of $47,000,000. Russell Construction, identified in the presentation as a women‑owned MBDB local contractor, submitted the lowest base bid at $43,400,000; adding alternates 1 and 2 brought their price to approximately $46,600,000, still below the announced budget. The presentation said the base bid includes the demolition of the existing Percy Julian High School and that MBE/DBE participation figures will be finalized as the contract process advances.
Facilities staff and board members noted enthusiasm for the projects and discussed next steps including contract finalization, MBE reporting and plans for a groundbreaking event. Staff said they had coordinated media coverage with WSFA and planned a public photo opportunity with board members and Sheriff Derek Cunningham following recognitions.
Next steps: staff will proceed with contract negotiations and return to the board with final contract documents and MBE participation details for approval.