Washington Unified approves $2.9 million design‑build contract to launch River City High performing arts center

The Washington Unified School District board on June 25 approved a design‑build contract to begin work on a Measure Z‑funded performing arts center at River City High School, with the district targeting a $30 million construction budget and a 2028 completion date.

District staff asked trustees to authorize the design/build team contract for $2,880,731, funded from Measure Z bond proceeds, to begin schematic and design work. "This is a really exciting agenda item to bring to you today," said Monnique Stoall, the staff member presenting the item, adding the project will be “a cornerstone of what the voters wanted.”

The board heard a detailed presentation from the construction manager and the selected design‑builder about procurement, schedule and risk management. Jamie Brown, project manager with the Coming Group, said the team used a two‑step RFQ/RFP process and short‑listed three qualified teams before recommending the Flint/JKE team. "I am passionate about education facilities," Brown said, describing the team’s experience on previous school projects. A Flint representative told trustees the firm plans to limit cost risk by prefabricating components and leveraging in‑house union trades: "We identify those risks as early as possible… and try to procure materials far in advance." Another Flint partner said, "I guarantee you we'll be finished on time and on budget."

Trustees asked pointed questions about market volatility, subcontractor involvement and whether sponsorships or private support could offset some costs. Presenters said they will maintain iterative cost estimates at schematic and design development milestones and use an independent estimator at key checkpoints. They described a risk/opportunity matrix and early procurement strategies to reduce exposure to rising labor and material costs.

After discussion, Trustee Kirby Gonzalez moved approval and the board voted to authorize the contract. The district documented the target $30 million construction budget and the $2,880,731 design/build contract amount; staff said the contract scope covers design services through project completion and will be paid from Measure Z funds.

The board will receive future design milestones and cost updates during schematic design, design development and construction document phases. The district expects to return with renderings and opportunities for community partnerships as the design advances.