AISD unveils new elementary plans

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Austin Independent School District trustees are expected to approve design plans for a new North Central Elementary School, which will relieve the overcrowded McBee and Walnut Creek campuses.

The $14 million campus, which has stalled for a lack of a location, was approved in the 2004 bond issue. BLGY Architects were selected as the prime design firm for the campus in 2008. Last November, trustees finally approved the purchase of an 18-acre site at 102 East Rundberg Lane.

According to backup materials provided to trustees, the current programmed scope of work includes the construction of a campus with 32 classrooms that can be expanded to 40 classrooms. The site also will include playing fields, parking lots and a bus circle, as well as space for four additional portable classrooms.

The item, which is on the board's consent agenda, suggests taking a base bid for 32 classrooms, plus an alternate bid for the full 40 classroom facility, in case bids are competitive. Comments made by trustees in early January are being incorporated into the final plans.

The elementary school originally was budgeted for $12.7 million in 2004. The revised budget is $14.8 million. Construction is expected to begin in June and be completed next August.