JONESBORO — During its regular meeting Monday, March 4, the Clayton County Board of Education approved the cost of the Lovejoy High School modernization and additions at more than $141.87 million.
The guaranteed maximum price was nearly $127 million but architect fees are expected to be more than $7 million, furnishings and equipment $1.5 million and a 5% contingency fund to bring the cost to nearly $142 million.
In June, the School Board is expected to approve a final guaranteed maximum price.
According to information in the March 4 agenda, the initial GMP allows the contractor to begin construction while continuing to find more cost-effective solutions for the project. The final project cost will not exceed the initial GMP, according to the agenda information.
In September 2023, the School Board approved a contract with Evergreen Construction for pre-construction management of the project.
The project is being paid for from special purpose local option sales tax money.
Renovations and improvements include a new gym, a new two-story wing and other improvements.
The project is expected to alleviate overcrowding at Lovejoy and in a Feb. 26 work session, School Superintendent Anthony Smith said the school system will have to look at redistricting, particularly in the fast-growing southern panhandle area of county.
“We’re going to be confronted with redistricting in the very near future,” Smith said.
The school system has about 100 acres in the panhandle that can be used for new schools — including elementary and middle, Smith said
The School Board also approved the following during the March 4 meeting:
— A GMP of more than $7.7 million for HVAC and roof improvements for Swint Elementary, Jonesboro Middle and River’s Edge Elementary.
While the guaranteed maximum price is more than $7.7 million, architect fees are expected to be…
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