Board receives updates on rooftop solar, greenhouse and fieldhouse plans

At the May 13 Bradford Exempted Village board meeting, administrators said solar panels have begun to be installed on the high school roof, with mechanical work scheduled to finish mid-month and permission-to-operate (PTO) targeted for about June 12. The district discussed a potential ribbon-cutting ceremony and media coverage options once the system is operational.

Work on a school greenhouse is also underway: a knee wall and floor have been poured and administrators expect the greenhouse structure to be erected within roughly two weeks, with brick veneer to follow. An unplanned electrical wiring issue discovered while digging the greenhouse footers prompted a motion and vote to approve an extra expense estimated to be under $5,000; the board approved the expense by roll call.

Separately, the board heard a design update for a proposed fieldhouse. The architect revised mezzanine steps and presented alternates such as a larger bleacher set and a fully fitted weight room. Administrators said the project's planning budget is $3.4 million; if bids exceed that amount the district would complete the shell now (roof, footers, concrete) and defer interior fit-out such as walls and windows to a later date. Bids are expected in June or July, and completion could occur as early as next fall in a best-case scenario, though the timeline depends on lead times for pre-engineered building components and steel pricing.

Administrators also noted coordination of grants and rebates tied to the solar installation and that closeout work (permits, tax forms, grant paperwork) will follow once the system is operating.