Committee backs construction‑manager‑at‑risk approach for upcoming elementary modernizations

Mr. Jordan presented two delivery options for a set of upcoming elementary modernization and capital improvement projects: construction‑manager‑at‑risk (CMAR, referred to as SEMAR in the presentation) and a solicited public‑private procurement (PPE). He told the committee both methods are authorized under Virginia law but emphasized that CMAR allows early contractor involvement, concurrent constructibility reviews, design‑phase cost estimating and the establishment of a guaranteed maximum price before construction begins.

"Seymar brings in construction expertise into the project much earlier, allowing design cost estimating, phasing, scheduling, and constructibility reviews to occur concurrently and sooner rather than later," staff said during the presentation. Mr. Jordan said CMAR aligns well with the needs of projects involving multiple occupied campuses, complex phasing and the need for cost certainty.

Committee members asked about the role of city council in a solicited PPE process, procurement timing, architect procurement and whether the CMAR path would allow earlier design start. Staff said CMAR could allow design work to begin as early as summer 2026 if the committee authorized that approach, and that certain procurement thresholds and prequalified lists can speed selection of design partners and contractors.

After discussion staff recommended the CMAR/SEMAR approach and the committee signaled support to forward that recommendation to the full school board for formal approval.