$178 million school building project moves toward Phase 2 construction

What happened

Board-approved 2026-27 goals call for moving the May 2024 $178 million bond project from Phase 1 to Phase 2 construction. The district says work at William Street School is underway and expected to be ready next fall.

Why it matters to families

The project funds renovations and additions across district buildings and is paid for by borrowing, state building aid and savings. The district's 2024 phasing plan lists William Street first, then Court Street Elementary and Lancaster Middle School, so those schools may be affected next.

The evidence

The goals page says the board approved the goal on September 21, 2026. Minutes from November 3, 2025 approve testing and inspection contracts for Phase 1 and geotechnical testing for Phase 2, and June 8, 2026 minutes record an $11 million renewal of borrowing notes for the project.

The source