With bond funds depleted, Alabama district puts off 3 construction projects

Mobile County district says it doesn't have enough money remaining from 2012 bond funds to complete planned projects.

Three construction projects in the Mobile County (Ala.) district have been delayed because the school system doesn't have sufficient funds remaining from a $100 million bond.

Al.com reports that the bond, secured in 2012, had been budgeted to pay for 18 projects, but the school board has put off scheduling bids for the final three jobs on the list: Mae Eanes Middle, LeFlore High and Indian Springs Elementary schools.

Superintendent Martha Peek says the district projected that it would have a $5.1 million cost overrun if it moved forward on those projects. Those projects have been put off until fiscal year 2016, when additional state construction funds are available.

Mae Eanes Middle had been in line to receive an extensive renovation; Indian Springs was scheduled to get a new all-purpose room; and LeFlore planned to add a theater building. The projected cost of the three projects is about $12 million, according to project estimates.

About the Author

Mike Kennedy

Senior Editor

Mike Kennedy has been writing about education for American School & University since 1999. He also has reported on schools and other topics for The Chicago Tribune, The Kansas City Star, The Kansas City Times and City News Bureau of Chicago. He is a graduate of Michigan State University.

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