Despite sweeping budget cuts and job losses, Santa Rosa City Schools is charging ahead with a massive $129 million slate of construction projects this spring.
The work is fueled by voter-approved bond funds, which are legally separate from the district’s troubled general fund used for payroll. Much of the construction is vital to a historic district reconfiguration, including prepping campuses at Piner High and Santa Rosa Middle to welcome thousands of displaced students after six school closures this June.
This month, crews will also break ground on a new $56 million district headquarters to replace a mold-infested office and house specialized special education programs. District leaders argue the upgrades will actually save money long-term by ending expensive leases and centralizing operations.
Trustees are set to review the full facilities master plan and construction timeline at their upcoming meeting on April 22nd.