Board approves project steps, hears updates on Western High monument and A Street Athletic Complex driveway

The Paris Independent School Board approved project motions tied to ongoing facilities work and received updates on several campus projects.

Members approved BG4 paperwork to move forward with closeout of the new preschool/elementary building; the superintendent said a final security door remains to be installed before closeout. The board also approved Change Order One for DPL16, described by the superintendent as attached to the PG4 for the same project.

Superintendent Stephen McCully announced a public unveiling of the Western High monument on June 19 at 10 a.m., to be staged between the building columns; he said construction should be under way and district staff will invite dignitaries and local media.

The board received a detailed update about the A Street Athletic Complex driveway. McCully said contractor mobilization and the cost of repairs are being negotiated; an early quote cited about $26,000 for certain work but the project is already over budget and a newly finalized sewer‑line easement could require additional tear‑out and repairs. The superintendent said the city may replace sections related to the sewer work and that the district is evaluating options (top coating, partial replacement, or widening) to improve safety and traffic flow. Board members requested moving or widening the gate at the complex to reduce congestion and safety risk during events.

The superintendent also noted delivery of equipment for a districtwide audio/security/PA upgrade (eight pallets of materials received) and called the forthcoming system an important transformation for schools.

All facility motions on the agenda were approved on voice votes; the board did not set construction start dates at the meeting for the athletic driveway work and said additional negotiation with city and contractors will continue.