The 2024 Bond Program is moving full speed ahead, with continued progress across all major projects - even as we navigate some emerging challenges tied to construction timelines, permitting, and national supply chain issues. We’re excited to share updates from the past month and highlight what’s coming next as we work together to deliver modern, safe, and efficient learning environments for Bremerton students and staff.
For the Armin Jahr and View Ridge Elementary School replacement projects, there’s been major progress on both the interim and permanent campuses. We’ve submitted the remaining permits for the Interim Armin Jahr Elementary Campus, which is on track for construction to begin this spring. In partnership with our Design-Build team, we’ve focused on refining the interim campus to keep costs low while maintaining a safe and fully functional space for students and staff during construction. As an added benefit, some of the infrastructure from the interim site will be reused to support the new View Ridge Elementary Arts Academy. While the interim campus is on a tight timeline, we’re actively planning the transition to ensure classrooms are ready in time for the fall. A move vendor is being selected now, and we’ll be working closely with Armin Jahr staff this spring to support a smooth transition. Our Armin Jahr Transition Advisory Working Group has been key to the planning of our upcoming transition to ensure students, staff, and families are prepared.
Design work on the new schools is also progressing quickly. The team is wrapping up the Schematic Design phase, with excitement building as site plans and floor plans start to come into focus. Next, the team will begin working through the details - including interior layouts, playgrounds, and outdoor learning spaces. Our advisory committees continue to provide valuable feedback at each step, helping to shape schools that reflect the unique needs and character of their communities.
For the District-Wide HVAC Upgrades, our team continues to move quickly through the design process so we can begin ordering the long-lead electrical equipment required for these upgrades. Unfortunately, supply chain issues continue to affect this project - most notably, a 24-month lead time for the transformer needed at Bremerton High School. Despite these delays, we’re working hard with our contractors and Puget Sound Energy to stay on track. We're also carefully reviewing costs and exploring all possible options to ensure we make the most of every Bond dollar.
The Consolidated Facilities project is now officially underway, following the Board’s approval of the Design-Build team of Abbott and Rice Fergus Miller. We’ve already started planning sessions with district staff and are conducting site studies and “Day in the Life” workshops with Transportation and Maintenance teams to better understand how to design a space that supports their everyday work.
Finally, we’re continuing to engage families and community members through advisory groups, school-based conversations, and community outreach events. In addition to our January Open House, we recently hosted a Stop, Learn, & Share event at Bremerton High School and plan to host the next one on Friday, April 25th at Bremerton High School ahead of the VREAA Disney Musical Performance. We’ll also be connecting with families during upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences at Armin Jahr to share more about the upcoming transition and what to expect for the Interim AJES Campus starting in the fall.
As we continue to move forward, we’re keeping a close eye on market trends, supply chain constraints, and cost pressures that may impact timelines and budgets. While these challenges are real, we remain committed to keeping the community informed and involved every step of the way.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support!
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