Project team says middle school building pad due July 26; officials flag rock as top unforeseen issue

The Anderson School Board heard a construction update on the new middle school, during which the project team outlined a milestone-driven schedule and flagged rock encountered on site as the main unexpected condition.

Cammy, assistant project manager for the construction team, told trustees the project has completed demolition and clearing and established water service under the road. "Building pad ready July 26," she said, and the team expects steel delivery in October, a building "dry-in" in May 2027, HVAC startups by December and potential completion in July 2028. Cammy said site work has progressed rapidly, with the retention pond largely finished and a perimeter security fence and storm drainage installation slated in the next 30 days.

Senior project manager David Bay and other field staff described recent accomplishments and next steps: mass grading, relocation of power poles, and ongoing utility tie-ins. The presenters said long-lead items—HVAC units, switchgear and other equipment—are being prioritized for procurement so deliveries align with the construction schedule. "We're off to a good start on our storm drainage and site utilities," the project team said during questions from trustees.

Trustees and presenters discussed a pocket of rock discovered in the deepest excavation areas. Presenters said the rock is manageable but will require attention to avoid delays; they characterized it as the major remaining site risk after utility coordination and well abandonment work were completed. On wells, the team confirmed third-party abandonment and certification documents are in hand.

The presenters also reviewed renderings and interior plans, noting secure entry design, two-story classroom wings, a media center overlooking a courtyard and cafeteria circulation. They said interior designers are being engaged next and will collaborate on finishes and furniture selections.

Board members asked about perimeter disturbance, the retention pond location relative to Highway 81 and how much grading was required; presenters pointed to the back-left corner of the site for the pond and described a deliberate approach to shaping the hill and sightlines. The project team thanked the board for the opportunity to partner with the district and said they will continue to bring schedule and procurement updates to future meetings.

The construction presentation concluded with the team inviting trustees to attend on-site and thanking them for time and direction. The board did not take any formal action during the presentation.