Fairfield Public Schools seeks cost estimates to advance Ward High School to construction documents

Fairfield Public Schools asked the HBACIAQ building committee on June 5, 2026, for cost estimates to move Ward High School (phase three) from design development to full construction documents and public bidding.

The committee received two proposals: a BL Companies escalation that followed the original RFP pricing, and a Gilbane proposal covering construction documents through bidding and the signing of a GMP (Gilbane said general requirements and general conditions would be included in the GMP). The timeline discussed assumes design starting Oct. 1, going out to bid next spring and then approximately 27 months of construction.

Committee members said they need more time to vet the proposals and recommended addressing a funding request at the next meeting rather than approving work immediately. Members emphasized that securing funding (from FPS and up the municipal/state chain) is a precondition to authorizing contract awards or change orders.

Speakers also discussed closeout and reimbursement logistics for phase‑one projects: accounting must produce a clean general ledger and prepare a 1046S reimbursement package so the town can file with the state. The committee noted special legislation has opened a filing pathway for the Tomlinson project; participants said they were awaiting confirmation (governor's signature) before proceeding with filings for that project.

The committee agreed to continue reviewing the Ward proposals and to consider formal action at a subsequent meeting once funding and paperwork are clarified.