The first phase of long-awaited repairs at Kyrene School District’s Ben Furlong Education Center got underway last spring with the approval of a $6.3M plan, including a $4.8M guaranteed minimum price for portions of the infrastructure repairs.
Late last month, the District Board approved slightly more than $6M to fund the second phase of repairs. Another $3.4M in other costs is still pending and will be voted on later this year.
The facility at Kyrene and Warner Roads comprises 12 buildings on an 18-acre site and includes the administration building and transportation barn. Both were built in the late 1980s and have experienced only ongoing maintenance over the years, such as weatherization, painting and landscaping.
The work begun last spring in phase one includes a new HVAC system and a total renovation of the Board’s meeting room.
The recently approved $6M will handle projects including air handling systems, Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility requirements, lighting, fire suppression and other features.
The still pending $3.4M will address parking lot resurfacing, technology improvements and other items, including building permit costs.
More costs will come before the Board next year under a phase three plan that will look at the transportation and facilities building. Expected work will include safety and general maintenance, as well as furniture and technology improvements. Additional funding for the projects would come from a combination of bonds, capital override or District Additional Assistance. (Source)
