Racine Unified School District approves construction contracts for Walden and Gifford renovations

The Racine Unified School District Board Work Session on March 28, 2025, focused on several key construction projects and financial decisions impacting local schools.

A significant discussion centered on the renovations at Walden School, where the board reviewed plans for utilizing a large space currently designated for special education. This area, a former kindergarten classroom, will continue to serve as a space for special education services, allowing teachers to work directly with students. The board expressed satisfaction with the design of the front entry and office spaces, although there was a light-hearted concern about students potentially knocking on the windows.

The board also approved the recommendation to hire Fendorf Construction as the construction manager for the Walden renovations, with a formal vote scheduled for the upcoming March 17 meeting.

Another major topic was the guaranteed maximum price for renovations at Gifford K-8 School, presented by Shear Construction Company. The project, budgeted at approximately $16.7 million, includes the addition of a new gymnasium and locker rooms, as well as improvements to the original building from the 1960s. Board members raised concerns about the condition of existing facilities, particularly regarding paint and maintenance issues, and were assured that these would be addressed within the project budget.

Additionally, the board discussed financial strategies, including a resolution for a debt defeasance that would save the district an estimated $588,000 in future interest costs. This move is part of a broader effort to manage funds borrowed for construction projects at other schools.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to improving educational facilities and managing financial resources effectively, with several important decisions set for approval in the coming weeks.