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Mars Area School District board hears update on elementary construction, reviews two Centennial site options and cost estimates
Summary
A project presenter told the board the elementary addition is progressing despite rain delays and permit timing; the district reviewed two Centennial design options with estimated total-project costs of about $19 million (option 1) to near $23 million (option 2), and discussed playground, circulation and LGI needs.
A project presenter updated the Mars Area School District board on progress at the elementary addition and the related Centennial site proposals, reporting remaining concrete footers and piers, retaining-wall waterproofing and planned CMU foundation work.
The presenter said some concrete work was delayed by rain and that about 14% of the footer work remains to be completed; crews have begun backfilling behind the existing building and laying out footers and rebar for the kitchen and cafeteria foundation. “Were now just under $20,000,000,” the presenter said when summarizing the revised cost estimate for the combined project.
Why it matters: the board is weighing two site/layout options that differ in square footage and features but share the same phased schedule: architect selection and schematic design this spring, bidding in mid-January 2027 and anticipated construction procurement and a spring start with a target finish around June 2028.
Board members pressed for details about the playground and parent/bus circulation. The presenter said the general contractor will help relocate playground equipment and described a proposed roundabout and new drop-off patterns designed to separate parent and bus traffic. On timing for playground completion, the presenter said it will likely be late next fall or the following year, depending on site sequencing and remaining site work.
The board discussed adding a large-group instruction (LGI) space that could serve orchestra, band and performance needs. The presenter said an LGI could be incorporated into either option; board members asked for a separate cost estimate to understand how much an LGI would add to the bond request.
Budget and bond implications: the presenter reviewed the districts cost estimates and recent change orders approved at the prior meeting. He said option 1 reduces overall square footage and is currently estimated just under $19,000,000, while option 2 is larger and nearer $23,000,000. Board members noted that final bond costs will depend on interest rates and bond ratings and discussed holding some decisions until new board members have had an orientation and fall briefings on financing options.
Next steps: the presenter recommended selecting an architect and refining both options during schematic design to inform a final recommendation. Board members asked for an a la carte list of LGI and playground add-ons and requested cost comparisons before deciding on bond timing and the final plan.
The presentation and discussion concluded with the board scheduling further questions and interviews as needed; architect selection was described as an action to occur in May or June.
