During a recent meeting of the Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD) board, officials presented a preliminary Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for the construction of Elementary School Number 8, now designated as Elementary 8B. The estimated GMP for the project, which includes a split-level facility for grades K-5, is approximately $77 million. This figure reflects significant increases in construction costs attributed to inflation, supply chain issues, and the need for a redesign due to the challenging terrain of the new site on Hamilton Pool Road.

The board discussed the necessity of the new school, emphasizing its strategic location to serve the Provence community and surrounding developments. The original plan for Elementary 8 was to build on Bee Creek Road, but complications with land variances necessitated the shift to the new site, which has resulted in additional costs and a complete redesign of the school’s layout.

Officials acknowledged that while the GMP is a maximum price, there is potential for cost savings if contingencies are not fully utilized. The board is expected to review a final GMP next month, which may vary slightly from the current estimate as subcontractor bids are finalized.

In addition to the school construction, the board addressed the procurement of five new Suburbans for district transportation, totaling $326,225. These vehicles will support smaller student groups and staff needs, replacing older models while ensuring that all vehicles remain in good condition.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance campus safety, including the results of an intruder detection audit conducted by the Texas Education Agency. While specific findings from the audit will not be publicly disclosed to maintain security, the district is committed to improving safety protocols and training for staff.

The timeline for the opening of Elementary 8B is set for August 2026, with rezoning discussions anticipated in the spring. The board aims to ensure that the new facility meets the growing needs of the community while managing costs effectively amidst a challenging economic landscape.