Construction update: Northeast Middle/High School site advancing; county exploring 65,000–85,000 sq ft fieldhouse

Superintendent David Lawson and Executive Director for Administrative Services Ted Boyer updated the board on multiple construction projects, including the new Northeast Middle/High School and other roofing and HVAC work across the district.

Boyer walked members through photos of the Northeast site, pointing out the auditorium, gymnasium, media center, cafeteria and future bus drop areas. He noted geothermal piping installed to support heating and cooling and described a required excavation where crews found unsuitable fill that required removal, creating a change order of "just under $800,000." An estimated December timeline was given for completing the administrative services center roof work.

The discussion also touched on a county-led proposal for a regional fieldhouse. Boyer described a possible 65,000 to 85,000 square-foot indoor track facility with six lanes and infield turf that could host meets; the site had not yet been finalized. Lawson and Boyer emphasized the county's role in funding and that some projects are paid from a mix of state, county and estate funds.

Board members asked construction and funding clarifying questions and staff explained distinctions between the district's large-cap and small-cap classifications and how the county's PAYGO or bond financing affects which projects the county funds directly.

Work on the projects will continue under existing contracts and the board approved a capital budget amendment to reallocate funds so projects can be completed.