The Knox Community School Board members held discussion on the hiring of a construction manager for the upcoming $20 million building project.
Superintendent Dr. William Reichhart said the school board members considered a position of Construction Manager At-Risk.
“It’s a relatively new model,” explained Dr. Reichhart. “Universities have used this such as Notre Dame, Purdue at Lafayette and Ball State. In 2017, the State gave permission for public entities K-12 to use this process.”
The person assigned typically assumes control over the construction work by direct contracts with the subcontractors. They advise on schedule, constructability and scope of work, among other tasks.
With the approval of the board, school officials will now solicit Request for Proposals to contractors in the area and in the state for interest in the project.
The $20 million project, that is not anticipated to raise taxes to cover construction costs, will include the demolition of the elementary school’s Palmer Wing and the construction of a new addition extending south from the newer portion of the school. The high school would get additions on its north side to house vocational programs and a multipurpose room. All three schools would get secure entries.
