LAN will oversee and manage the bond program from pre-design through construction and closeout to ensure quality, cost effectiveness, and schedule completion. The centerpiece of the initiative is the replacement of the historic Ball High School. According to JP Grom, AIA, Vice President at LAN, “The new high school will be an educational showcase. The changes, supported by the bond program, reflect the community’s commitment to instruction and scholarship.”
LAN was selected for its experience and expertise in the bond management of schools, natatoriums, and stadiums.
“The district recognized that we also had experience working on the island both on the program management side and with facility assessments," Grom said. "We previously did an assessment of the district’s buildings. The district was also aware of our engineering capabilities that we've put into play for years with the city, the county, and the University of Texas Medical Branch Health Science Center.”
The district’s comprehensive expansion plan was driven by the community and developed by parents, educators, students, and civic and business leaders. Their goal is to replace and upgrade aging facilities, transportation, and technology to meet the district’s immediate and future need and to continue educational excellence.
With the bond passage, Grom said the first step will be for the district to have the designs for the improvements drawn up. Construction is slated to begin in the fall of 2022.
