Jenny Dean Elementary on time and on budget; division previews summer facility projects

Russ Hton, director of facilities and maintenance for Manassas City Public Schools, told the board that construction at Jenny Dean Elementary is progressing and remains "on time and on budget." He described recent site work, installation of mechanical systems, terrazzo flooring in the first floor and learning stairs outside the media center.

"We are tracking on time and on budget," Hton said, and showed images of site progress, kitchen equipment installations and classroom finishes. He described the kindergarten wing nearing closure and the readiness to begin punch‑list work in the coming weeks.

Hton also previewed major summer projects across the division: the third phase of the Osborne High School roof replacement, restroom renovations at Mets Middle School (noting the project required a more comprehensive ADA‑compliant design than earlier phases), and conversion of some elementary hallway flooring from older BCT product to LVT to reduce maintenance and improve durability. He listed other operational work planned for the summer: pump rebuilds, expansion tank work, replacement of aging valves, canopy repairs, curb restoration and preventive maintenance to support life‑safety and air‑quality systems.

Board members asked whether earlier restroom upgrades informed the larger Mets renovation; Hton responded that the previously completed vocational‑wing upgrades were smaller in scope and that the upcoming phase includes a formal redesign to meet ADA standards and current codes.

What’s next: Hton said crews will continue work through the summer; projects tied to capital planning and preventive maintenance will proceed with the goal of preserving assets and improving accessibility. The board did not vote on construction contracts during the public portion of the meeting.