District reviews more work at Rancho school

Hollister School District trustees approved an almost $3.6 million project to modernize Rancho San Justo Middle School last month and this week they’ll make more decisions.
Trustees approved the campus modernization during their board meeting Oct. 27 but were set to revisit the topic Tuesday when they examine a contract from an architectural firm. During the meeting, trustees were to evaluate IBI Group Architecture Planning’s proposed project scope and fee for the fire alarm, Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades and door replacement project.
The cost of the firm’s work will be $147,185, according to background information in the meeting agenda. This amount is included in the almost $3.6 million cost estimate for the modernization, confirmed John Teliha, the district’s director of facilities in an email to the Free Lance Tuesday.
The work will be funded by Measure M, a $28.5 million general obligation facilities bond meant to fix the district’s leaky roofs, upgrade classrooms and improve campus security. Voters approved the bond in November 2014.
The schematic design for the modernization includes new exterior doors, an upgraded fire alarm system, improved ADA access, new restrooms and controlled access into the campus during school hours. Earlier examinations of the site revealed the current staff lounge was not Division of the State Architect approved so it will be replaced as part of the work done at the site.
Staff officials are tentatively looking at starting the project April 1.