FROM STAFF REPORTS

COLUMBIANA—The Shelby County School District has released a plan for capital improvement projects to be completed over the next two years utilizing revenue generated from refinancing existing debt at a lower interest rate.

“With this process, our school district was able to secure approximately $5.52 million for capital projects funding while not increasing our debt service,” said Superintendent Randy Fuller. “It allows us to address some immediate needs as well as addressing some minor renovations and improvements. This plan includes different projects throughout the county.”

On the heels of a major $80 million capital project plan, which included construction of three new schools and additions as well as renovations at several schools throughout the county, this funding gives the school district the opportunity to address some areas that were not included at that time.

The highlight of the proposed new plan is a 20-classroom addition at Chelsea High School to address continued growth. Along with the classroom additions at Chelsea High School, kitchen renovations will be made at Elvin Hill Elementary School, Calera Intermediate School and Montevallo Middle School.

The plan also includes security improvements at the central office and Shelby County Instructional Services Center, as well as parking lot improvements, HVAC upgrades and roof replacements at various locations throughout the school system.

“Our capital improvement leadership team has worked diligently over the past several months to address the immediate needs of our system,” Fuller said. “The Shelby County Board of Education is pleased to have the opportunity to address some of our improvement needs at this time.”