According to project executive Nick Tuttle, progress on Phase II of Natalia ISD’s bond construction project remains on schedule.
“We got our permits issued on August 3, so at this point, we’re heavily into the mobilizations phase, and things are about to get ready to rock and roll,” Tuttle said.
Tuttle, who works for construction management company AGCM, Inc., updated NISD’s Board of Trustees during the Regular meeting held last Tuesday, August 11.
Asbestos abatement is underway at both Natalia Elementary and the front wing of Natalia Junior High. Protective fencing has gone up around construction areas, and the installation of storm water pollution prevention equipment and the demolition of asphalt at the front drive and in the parking lot is underway.
“The next time we’re going to have anything for approval probably isn’t going to be until April or May of 2021,” Tuttle said. “You’re going to get a lot of pictures and a lot of updates on projects and where we’re at budget-wise and things like that from this point moving forward.”
Tuttle said the budget remained on track, with general contractor Joeris signing a contract around $9.6 million. That brings the total construction cost of Phase I and Phase II of the project to about $9.9 million. Soft costs of $1,873,370 bring the total to $11,772,560 or $1,047,560 over budget.
“However, we are actively looking for potential savings and anticipate this number to go down through the project,” Tuttle said.
Phase II of the bond includes the construction of four classrooms, a science classroom, library, administration offices, cafetorium, and kitchen, as well as the conversion of NJHS’s 300 wing into a Band Hall. Phase II is scheduled to be complete in December 2021.
By Marly Davis
Staff Writer