Anchorage school district construction projects for 2004 and beyond: though construction work is not as extensive as ASD would like, there are still plenty of school projects ongoing this year.

• Author: Morgan, Barbara

On April 6, Anchorage voters voted for several school bonds: Proposition 4 for major repairs, renewals and equipment, with a total estimated project cost of $36.4 million; Proposition 5 for school renovation, construction and site acquisition, with a total estimated project cost of $95.8 million; and Proposition 6 for an administrative and training facility, with a total estimated project cost of $30 million.

The results: Proposition 4 passed. Proposition 5 and 6 did not pass.

The catch: State reimbursement will not be available after 2004. Unfortunately the legislative program that reimburses 60 percent to 70 percent of the total cost of school construction projects ends on Dec. 31, 2004. State debt reimbursement significantly reduces the amount local taxpayers spend on these projects. Because only projects approved before the end of the year qualify for this program, voters may see another school bond proposition on the ballot for November or for a special election.

Proposition 4 includes door lock, security system and mechanical upgrades; fire sprinkler installations; heating system conversion at five schools; electrical, roof replacement and repairs; minor building renewal projects at multiple schools; heavy equipment replacement; 11 replacement school buses; handicap access upgrades; traffic safety planning/design; and safety/site upgrades.

Despite the fact that some school bonds did not pass this year, many contractors are busy with school projects from bond funding approved in previous years.

SOUTH ANCHORAGE AREA HIGH SCHOOL OPENS THIS FALL

Neeser Construction Inc. is the general contractor for South Anchorage Area High School, located off Huffman and Elmore roads--the biggest project of the Anchorage School District, with a total cost of $65 million. RSA Engineering Inc. served as the mechanical/ electrical engineer.

The site for this 243,000-square-foot south-facing building was selected more than 15 years ago in anticipation of school needs for Anchorage.

NEW EAGLE RIVER AREA HIGH SCHOOL WILL SERVE 800 STUDENTS

General contractor Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc. is working on this two-story, 180,000-square-foot building, located on Yosemite Drive off Eagle River Loop Road near Hiland Road. Projected completion is July 2005. Site development will include parking and sports fields.

The new Eagle River Area High School followed the prototype of Dimond High School without one of the wings (which can be added later). Using a...