Mt. Diablo Unified School District Measure J and Other Construction Projects Update

On Aug. 21st, MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent the following update to District parents and staff:

Dear Parents, Families, Staff and Community Members,

I am thrilled to share some exciting updates on the progress of the Measure J Bond project and other funded construction projects that have taken place and are scheduled to continue throughout our District. This summer, our dedicated staff and contractors have been hard at work, focusing on modernizing our schools and creating better learning environments for our students and staff. From the significant upgrades at three of our elementary schools to the district wide technology and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) improvements, these projects represent our ongoing commitment to providing a top-tier educational experience for every student in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District.

Modernization of Meadow Homes, Mt. Diablo, and Rio Vista Elementary Schools

The modernization efforts at Meadow Homes, Mt. Diablo, and Rio Vista Elementary Schools include substantial upgrades such as new flooring, walls, ceilings, doors, dual-pane windows, classroom furniture, HVAC systems, lighting, clocks, and restrooms. Importantly, these upgrades also incorporate Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility improvements where necessary. Additionally, restrooms that were previously converted into storage spaces may be returned to their original function in Phase II of the project.

The Multi Use Rooms at Rio Vista and Mt. Diablo Elementary received HVAC. The Meadow Homes Multi Use Room will receive HVAC during Phase II.

Rio Vista Elementary received additional upgrades with the construction of two new Transitional Kindergarten classrooms and two new Special Day Class classrooms.

The modernization work is being executed in phases:

• Phase I: Several classrooms, offices, and restrooms were completed during Summer 2024. However, due to unforeseen delays, some work is still ongoing. This includes technology infrastructure upgrades, exterior door replacements, HVAC controls, window coverings, sinks, cabinets, countertops, and main office improvements at Mt. Diablo and Rio Vista Elementary Schools.

• Phase II: This will begin in early 2025, with work scheduled during school breaks. The project is expected to be fully completed by the end of Summer 2025.

Technology Infrastructure Upgrades

Silverwood Elementary School has been outfitted with new security cameras, Wi-Fi infrastructure, clocks, bells, and a new phone system. This project serves as a pilot program, with plans to replicate it across the district. The next phase of technology infrastructure improvements is slated for Northgate High School, Dent Center, Willow Creek Center, other Central Services offices, and Loma Vista Adult Education Center.

Wren Avenue Elementary is currently in the Design phase for similar upgrades.

Districtwide HVAC Controls and Maintenance, and HVAC Replacement Projects

We are currently 18 months into a two-year project to upgrade the HVAC systems across the district. New thermostats and controls are expected to be substantially completed by December 2024. Out of 2,000 HVAC units scheduled for replacement, 249 were targeted for the summer, with 18 remaining to be installed during the Fall Break in October 2024.

Other Upcoming Construction Projects (Non-Measure J)

• College Park High School Field Replacement: Completed Summer 2024. 

• Mt. Diablo High School Synthetic Track and Field Replacement: Scheduled for Fall 2024. During this period, home football games will be held at Riverview Middle School. 

• Middle School Kitchen/Multi-Use Room Modernization:

  • Valley View Middle School's kitchen and multi-use room were completed over the summer.

  • El Dorado Middle School’s construction is anticipated to begin in Fall/Winter 2024.

• Central Services Camera and Lighting Upgrades: These upgrades are scheduled for Fall/Winter 2024. Camera upgrades are part of the broader technology infrastructure improvements mentioned above. LED lighting has already been installed at schools and other district offices.

• Pleasant Hill Middle School Pool Replacement: The contract has been signed, but the project schedule is still to be determined.

Future Planning

Given the age and condition of MDUSD’s facilities, ongoing upgrades are necessary. We anticipate that Measure J funds will be fully expended by late 2025. Looking ahead, we are considering pursuing a new facilities bond to continue our efforts to enhance our schools. Before moving forward, we will update and prioritize our Facilities Master Plan, including a focus on athletics and visual and performing arts facilities.

Thank you for your ongoing support and investment in the 29,000 wonderful students of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District. It is because of your trust and partnership that we can continue to make these vital improvements that will benefit our students and community for years to come.

Thank you,

Dr. Adam Clark
Superintendent 

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