South May remodel nears phase 1 completion as board approves change order increasing total project cost to just over $3 million

The COPTA board on Nov. 7 approved Change Order #3 for the South May administration building renovations and heard a program update on construction progress and schedule.

Project planner Kandi Thompson told the board phase 1 (the south half of the building) is close to completion and described the scope of the remodel: a new large training room (up to 42 seats, divisible), three conference rooms, an updated dispatch and call center with workstations, 16 private offices, 49 cubicles and three private lounges (one convertible to a nursing room). Kandi said the team added blocking in walls to support TVs and whiteboards and identified electrical and water-service upgrades discovered during construction.

With change orders and amendments factored in, Kandi reported the new total construction cost is just over $3,000,000, a 4.21% increase from the original contract amount of roughly $2.88 million (change orders alone represent about 3.14% to date). She said phase 1 substantial completion is slated for Jan. 29, 2026, with furniture and IT setup and staff moves planned between Jan. 29 and March 6; phase 2 work would begin thereafter with an estimated wrap date in August 2026.

The board approved Change Order #3 with Cade Construction for $49,191.19 by voice vote. Kandi and trustees noted the inclusion of a nursing room and other amenities intended to support staff needs and operations. The board asked staff to continue coordination and return with updates as construction milestones are reached.