School committee approves submission of fast‑tracked high‑school roof design to RIDE

The North Kingstown School Committee voted unanimously March 3 to approve design‑development drawings and the 60% construction documents for the fast‑tracked high‑school roof replacement and to submit them to the Rhode Island Department of Education for Stage‑3 review.

Mike DiMattio, a Pericom Group representative presenting the capital improvement program, said the project has been accelerated to try to get the majority of disruptive roof work completed before the start of school in August 2026. He told the committee the team advanced design‑development and 60% construction documents, added allowances and three alternates (including acoustical mitigation and exhaust‑fan replacement), and is preparing RFPs and addenda to clarify minor outstanding details.

An architect working with the team described site‑staging plans, fenced laydown areas, sequencing intended to avoid leaving the building exposed to weather, and a requirement that most disruptive work be finished by the August school opening so rooftop equipment is operational for the first day of classes.

Committee members pressed the presenters on contract protections and the bidding schedule. A member asked whether liquidated‑damages clauses would be included; presenters said liquidated damages and other final conditions would be in the contract documents and that addenda would be issued at least 48 hours before bid closing when possible. Presenters also said the most recent independent estimates show the project tracking on budget though the committee has not received market bids yet.

After the Q&A, the committee approved two motions: one to accept the design‑development submission for RIDE Stage 3 and another to accept the 60% construction documents and submit them for RIDE Stage 3 CD. Both were approved by voice vote so bidding can proceed as the team finalizes addenda and contract language.

Next steps: district staff and the design team will finalize outstanding bid details, post any required addenda, move the project to public bid, and return with award recommendations once bids are received.