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Board approves schematic design for North Mesquite High School, including 32,000 sq ft storm shelter
Summary
The Mesquite ISD Board approved schematic plans for a 32,000-square-foot addition at North Mesquite High School that will function as a full‑capacity storm shelter, remove portables, relocate tennis courts and upgrade major building systems; the project has a GMP target of $52.6 million and a total project cost estimate of $60.4 million.
The Mesquite Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved the schematic design for North Mesquite High School on June 9, authorizing continued design and next‑step procurement for construction. Roland Gentry of WRA described the planned addition as a ‘‘32,000 square foot storm shelter’’ sized to house the full student and staff population and to absorb the campus portables after construction.
Gentry said the project will include 15 core classrooms, an e‑sports lab, a computer lab, a child‑development classroom, CTE spaces for health sciences and fashion design, and a multipurpose/dance‑cheer room. The renovation portion will address roof and mechanical system replacements, updated HVAC controls, asbestos abatement, electrical upgrades, and an updated façade and entry with a curtain wall and cantilevered canopy designed to match existing brick patterns.
Jay Russell of Mesquite ISD construction services told trustees the district received strong market interest from contractors and opened 11 bids for the construction‑manager‑at‑risk procurement. He said the district is aiming for a GMP‑targeted construction budget of $52,600,000 and a total project cost of $60,400,000, which includes fees, furniture and equipment, testing and contingencies. Russell said the team plans to issue design drawings in mid‑November and expects construction to run through the summer of 2027.
Board members pressed on security and site impacts: trustees asked about securing a breezeway near a wrought‑iron fence, the condition of original chillers and ductwork, and safety measures where tennis courts will be relocated across Mesquite Drive. Project staff said they will pursue site revisions requested by the city (a fire lane and pavement improvements), add security cameras and lighting at relocated courts, and explore shade structures where feasible. The design includes adding windows to improve visual security at the administrative drop‑off area.
The motion to approve the schematic was moved and seconded on the floor and carried seven‑zero. Trustees and staff said the district will continue coordination with campus administrators and city inspectors as design develops.
