Pender County Schools Board Approves MBP for K-8 Project

News Summary

The Pender County Board of Education has selected MBP as the construction management firm for the new K-8 school project, which includes J.H. Lea Elementary and Middle Schools. This decision follows a competitive selection process and comes as part of efforts to enhance educational facilities in the county. The project, with a budget now exceeding $135 million, is expected to be completed by fall 2027, focusing on innovative environmental management amid construction challenges.

Pender County Schools Appoints MBP for K-8 School Project Management

The Pender County Board of Education has unanimously approved the selection of MBP as the construction management firm for the upcoming K-8 school project, which will encompass J.H. Lea Elementary and Middle Schools. With plans in place for a significant addition to the educational landscape, the new campus is set to rise on a prime 145-acre site located along N.C. Highway 210 in Hampstead.

Choosing the Right Firm

MBP was chosen from a competitive pool of three finalists, which included well-regarded companies such as Cumming Group, Turner, Townsend and Heery. The board’s decision highlights confidence in MBP’s capabilities, as the firm will be responsible for essential management tasks including overseeing contracts, controlling expenses, scheduling, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Project Timeline and Current Progress

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new school campus took place in the fall of 2023. Currently, construction is making significant headway, with the project estimated to be approximately 34% complete. Work on the foundation and walls is progressing, and the school is slated for completion by the fall of 2027.

Budget Overview

The ambitious project, which forms part of a substantial $178-million bond referendum approved by voters in 2022, has an allocated budget of over $111 million specifically for the K-8 school. However, recent assessments have led to a budget increase to over $135 million, which now includes $6.7 million earmarked for furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The total cost, factoring in allowances and contingencies, is estimated to reach $142.2 million.

Funding and Future Projects

The services provided by MBP will be financed through the previously mentioned bond, reinforcing the commitment to ensure that educational infrastructure continues to improve in Pender County. Notably, the board has decided that no other projects funded by this bond will commence until the completion of the new K-8 school, underscoring the prioritization of this significant educational investment.

Expertise and On-Site Management

MBP boasts a wealth of experience since its inception in 1989, managing various school projects, hospitals, and government buildings, including the Wilmington Convention Center. The firm has also successfully completed a recent K-8 facility in Bladen County and is actively involved in multiple construction projects in Danville, Virginia. As part of the on-site management approach, Michael Burris, the project manager from MBP, is scheduled to visit the site twice a month, ensuring consistent oversight and addressing needs as they arise.

Addressing Project Challenges

While the project moves forward, one of the primary concerns is the potential impact of weather conditions, particularly due to the school’s location within a hurricane-prone area. Additionally, approximately 40% of the school site consists of wetlands. In response, there are plans to implement culverts and a pedestrian bridge to preserve the natural landscape and facilitate safe access.

Transparency and Communication

MBP has committed to proactive problem-solving and maintaining open lines of communication with the board, along with providing thorough documentation of the budget. Discussions surrounding the need for a dedicated project management firm began in the early conversations regarding the school bond referendum in 2021, highlighting a strategic approach to project oversight.

Operational Considerations

In light of ongoing developments, the school board is in the process of searching for a new chief operations officer, following the departure of the previous COO in February. As part of the partnership with Bordeaux Construction, an extended warranty period of two-and-a-half years will be provided to address any post-completion issues that may arise, ensuring long-term reliability in the new facilities.

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Additional Resources

• Port City Daily: Pender School Board Hires Project Management Team
• WECT: Major Progress Underway for New K-8 School Pender County
• WWAY: Pender County School Board Approves Key Projects
• Google Search: Pender County K-8 School Project
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pender County Schools