By Scott Harvey
Bonham – The Bonham ISD has formally called for a May bond election valued at $24.7 million to pay for campus improvements.
The bond package was developed and recommended last month by the citizen's committee comprised of parents, BISD staff, community members and business leaders.
Proposed improvements will address a number of issues at both Bonham High School and I.W. Evans Intermediate School. If approved, improvements include, but are not limited to, tackling building code deficiencies and constructing a new library at the High School, plus constructing eight new classrooms and a new gymnasium at I.W. Evans. Complete details are below.
Board members on Monday voted 6-1 in favor of the measure, with Press Cox voting against. Voters go to the polls on May 14. In November 2009, The Bonham ISD failed to win approval of a $40 million bond proposal for school improvements.
Bond Proposal:
- Additions and Renovations to Bonham High School Renovate 2-story academic building to resolve structural deficiencies.
- Upgrade mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems
- Address handicap accessibility and building code deficiencies
- Construct new library, cafeteria and kitchen, choir and band hall, classrooms, lecture hall for large group instruction, gym and locker rooms
- Create new main entrance facing Highway 121
- Relocate administration to new entrance and create secured entrance
- Construct new drives and parking on the west side of the campus
- Additions and Renovations to I.W. Evans Intermediate School Construct eight new classrooms and a new gym to address overcrowding
- Expand and relocate administration to the front of the school to create a secure main entrance
- Enlarge all classrooms to be compliant with state standards
- Renovate building with new energy efficient windows and new roof, and mechanical, electrical, plumbing, handicap accessibility and building code upgrades
- Construct new drive and parking on the north side of campus to relieve traffic congestion