Proposed School Construction Bond Initiatives

Prior to the $200 million construction bond which passed in 2000, Guilford County Schools (GCS) had not seen major construction since the 1970’s. That bond built five new schools and funded major renovations in six schools and because GCS carefully managed funds, the district was able to include several additional projects not originally outlined in the 2000 bond. Guilford County voters then approved a $300 million construction bond in 2003 which provided resources for six new schools, four replacement schools and a great deal of renovations and expansions.

Construction costs have sky-rocketed nationwide, but GCS has been as judicious as possible with bond dollars. According to the Department of Public Instruction, the state has seen a 42 percent increase in construction costs, but GCS has experienced a rise just over 10 percent in the same amount of time.

Even with the progress we’ve made, more schools are needed and more schools need renovations. The district has grown by 1,700 new students each year, which is the equivalent to one large high school. The district expects 1,800 new students during the 2007-08 school year. Not only are new schools needed to relieve overcrowding, but the district must adjust to the changing population patterns in the county.

Click here to view the proposed 2008 Bond Projects.

Click here to view a detailed overview of the proposed 2008 Bond Projects.

Click here to view a map of the proposed 2008 Bond Projects.

Click here to view the 2008 School Construction Bond video.

Click here to view the School Construction Cost presentation.

Click here to view the press release regarding top ranked metropolitan areas.