February 7, 2024 Update

Dear Community Members,

Our project meetings were on hiatus following the submission of our plan to SED in November. We recently resumed scheduled Capital Improvement Project stakeholder meetings on January 12, 2024, and can share several important updates regarding the project schedule, budget, design, and administrative matters.

1. Project Schedule Update

Master Activity Schedule – Phase I & II:

Submitted on November 15, 2023, we have been notified that the Phase I State Education Department (SED) Review is delayed. However, we expect comments by early April and approval by June.

Concerning the bidding strategy, summer is considered unfavorable for bidding on projects. We aim to be first out with bids in September, but with a possibility of a Spring 2024 bid if approval comes sooner. There are regional bidding concerns as well.  The presence of other major projects, such as the Buffalo Bills stadium, requires us to put together that much more of an attractive bid. We are also exploring state contracts and cooperative contracting opportunities to potentially start some work in the summer, such as the Public Address (PA) system.

Phase I Anticipated Bid Timeline & Phase II Design Schedule: 

We are targeting February 8, 2024, for submitting the Design Drawing estimate for Phase II, with a review submission date set for August 6, 2024.

2. Project Budget Update

Phase I SED Estimate Review: 

Currently, we are 0.6% over budget, a significant reduction from the previous 4.5%.

Alternates Discussion: 

We are identifying 10% deduct alternates (worth $1.34M) that can be cleanly removed without impacting other project areas. These could potentially be pulled back into the project if we have a healthy contingency.

3. Design Discussion

Wall & Stair Graphics and Akron Athletic Logo Review:

Potential athletic department logos are currently up for a community vote to narrow the selections from six to three.  Please consider voting for your favorite here.  We will continue to offer opportunities for community input review the status and provide We will review proposed logos and color schemes with all stakeholders.

4. General Administrative / Next Meeting Dates

Establishment of Meetings:

Monthly recurring OACM Meetings and Phase II Design Meetings will be established. Additionally, stakeholder committee members for Phase II need to be identified to ensure comprehensive participation and feedback.

Thank you for your continued interest and support for this important project. We understand that delays and budget concerns can be disappointing, but we are committed to navigating these challenges effectively. Your feedback and involvement are invaluable to the success of this project.

Warm Regards,

Andrea S. Kersten
Superintendent of Schools