Portland School Board approves seismic retrofit resolution for high-risk buildings

During the recent Portland Public Schools (PPS) Board of Education meeting, a significant focus was placed on the urgent need for seismic retrofitting of high-risk school buildings. Chief Operating Officer Dan Young provided an overview of the ongoing seismic assessment process, which aims to identify and prioritize necessary upgrades across the district's facilities. The assessment, completed last year, revealed critical seismic deficiencies in various schools, prompting the board to take action.

Young outlined a three-part process for addressing these deficiencies. The first phase involved a comprehensive assessment of all school facilities. The second phase, currently underway, includes recommendations from structural engineers on the most effective investments for seismic upgrades. The final phase will involve applying the district's criteria to prioritize projects based on factors such as school enrollment and potential consolidations.

The board discussed a proposed resolution aimed at committing funds from the upcoming 2025 bond to address these seismic issues. Board members expressed their excitement about the resolution, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of students and staff in the district's aging buildings. The resolution calls for a comprehensive risk reduction plan and regular progress reports to maintain transparency and accountability in the retrofitting process.

Community members also voiced their concerns during public comments, highlighting the emotional burden of sending children to schools with known seismic risks. Parents like Catalina Gonzalez shared personal stories of fear and advocacy, urging the board to prioritize the safety of students. The board acknowledged the importance of community engagement in shaping the resolution and committed to addressing the seismic safety of schools as a top priority.

As the board prepares to vote on the resolution, the discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for immediate action to protect students and staff from potential seismic hazards. The outcomes of this meeting could pave the way for significant improvements in school safety, ensuring that future generations have a secure environment for learning.