EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Canutillo Independent School District Board of Trustees has approved construction contracts for major renovations at three elementary schools as part of the district’s voter-approved bond program, the district announced Tuesday night, July 15.
The total cost of the projects came in under budget, according to the district.
At its regular meeting Tuesday night, the board voted 6-0 to approve a guaranteed maximum price of $14.7 million for upgrades at Childress, Damian and Garcia elementary schools.
The projects were originally estimated to cost $15.5 million.
Jordan Foster Construction, previously selected by the board, will serve as the general contractor for all three schools.
“The goal of the bond is to transform our district and provide world-class facilities for our students while also respecting our taxpayers’ investment,” Superintendent Pedro Galaviz said. “Thanks to hard work and a strong partnership with our bond management team at Procedeo, we’re doing both — delivering on our promises and saving money.”
The difference between the guaranteed maximum price and the budgeted cost will be added to the project’s contingency budget to be used in case of cost overruns or other unexpected costs. The Board approved the guaranteed maximum price for the following scope of work:
Childress Elementary School (GMP: $5,033,567)
● Security upgrades: secure entry vestibule, new fire alarm, emergency notification systems and security cameras
● Roof maintenance and repairs
● New HVAC units
● Network and Wi-Fi infrastructure upgrades
● New flooring to replace existing carpeting
Damian Elementary School (GMP: $5,322,300)
● Security upgrades similar to Childress
● Roof maintenance and new HVAC systems
● Network and Wi-Fi improvements
● New restrooms and multipurpose space
● Repairs to interior walls and sealants
● Installation of carbon monoxide detectors
Garcia Elementary School (GMP: $4,359,485)
● Security and fire safety enhancements
● Roof and HVAC upgrades
● Classroom additions and technology improvements
● New staff restroom, upgraded gym speaker system and water heaters
● Interior painting and playground canopy replacements
● New pedestrian gate at Westside Drive
● Carbon monoxide detectors
Canutillo ISD plans to hold groundbreaking ceremonies at each of the three schools after the start of the 2025–26 school year, which begins Aug. 4.
Trustee Carolina Ortega abstained from the vote, citing a possible conflict of interest. The district did not elaborate.
Read: Read More