Board awards $6.71 million contract for new district office; business park work includes EV infrastructure conduit

The Merced Union High School District board unanimously approved awarding a $6,710,500 contract to Harris Builders for construction of the new district office and related business-park site work in Atwater, the board heard on Aug. 28.

District staff said 11 bids were evaluated and that Harris Builders was the low responsive, responsible bidder. The project scope includes interior and exterior buildout of an existing shell, drainage, utilities, parking, lighting, updated electrical and mechanical systems, and site improvements. Presenters confirmed that permitting is complete and that the district already owns the site buildings; the contract covers interior fit-out and surrounding site infrastructure.

Trustees asked about funding and timelines. Staff confirmed funds are available in capital and developer-fee reserves and said the project aims for substantial completion by May 2026, assuming no delays. The board noted the bid includes conduit and electrical infrastructure for future EV charging; staff said initial required vehicle chargers for regular vehicles will be installed and the site conduit and transformer capacity will allow future expansion for electric buses without major trenching.

Trustees also asked whether solar or additional EV chargers were included; staff said solar is not part of the current scope and that EV charging will be phased as needed. Harris Builders was identified as an experienced local contractor currently completing other district projects. The motion to award the contract passed unanimously.