Rice & Gardner lays out 90‑day plan for Brenham ISD bond projects; warns of code, asbestos risks

Rice & Gardner presented a 90‑day kickoff to the Brenham ISD board on progress since the contract was signed May 12, emphasizing data collection, scope validation and early coordination with permitting officials.

The presenter, Rice & Gardner's principal in charge, said the team has completed initial campus walk‑throughs and is developing scope sheets and technical design criteria they will use to prepare documents for bidding. "Nothing worth doing is done without a plan," the presenter said, stressing a master schedule and procurement approach aimed at maximizing competitive pricing. He identified mechanical, roofing and waterproofing as the largest scopes and noted additional work may include electrical, plumbing and interior repairs.

Board members pressed the team about building‑code triggers and whether routine replacements (for example, air handlers or chillers) would require permits or broader upgrades. Rice & Gardner cautioned that work in older buildings can "open up" latent problems — for instance, replacing HVAC systems could reveal asbestos or require upgrades to ADA standards — and said they will coordinate with architects and local permitting officials before work begins so the district can understand potential trade‑offs and costs. The company also said it will pursue transparent communications with the community and provide regular monthly updates to the board.

The presentation included the team's plan to engage design consultants, perform final site visits this week and begin budget‑pricing exercises; the firm said early cost estimates will be brought back to the board for decision making and prioritization.