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Construction on the new $118.9 million Sam Houston Math, Science, and Technology Center is now 40 percent complete, with permanent power — a significant milestone for the project — expected to be connected by late March.
Tilt-wall installation is expected to wrap up later this month. Concrete slabs have been poured in all areas, and two sections of the complex are now completely enclosed. Crews are continuing to install sections of the roof, as well as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Sizwe Lewis, HISD senior manager of construction services, said the project experienced some weather-related delays, but he is hopeful that the crew can make up the time and remain on schedule.
“The freezing temps and rain we’ve had since the first of the year came at a critical time in the project,” Lewis said. “We’re working to minimize the impact of that to the project timeline.”
Sam Houston MSTC is among 40 schools, including 29 high schools, being renovated or rebuilt across the district as part of the 2012 Bond Program. The three-story school is designed to accommodate 2,550 to 2,750 students and incorporate an existing science classroom and laboratory wing.
Construction progress can be viewed in real time via a webcam installed at the site.
The 360,000-square-foot facility will have a collegiate feel with plenty of classroom space, informal meeting areas to facilitate project-based learning, and a large outdoor courtyard. The building also will feature a grand learning stairway, which will function as both a gathering spot for students, as well as a flexible space for class lectures and presentations.
Other design highlights include an updated JROTC area and a fine arts wing with an 800-seat auditorium and black box theater.
Construction on the new Sam Houston MSTC campus is slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Half of the all projects in the 2012 Bond Program are already complete and open to students. Once all projects are finished, HISD will boast one of the most modern portfolios of urban high schools in the nation.
Follow @Build_HISD on Twitter for the latest updates on the 2012 Bond Program and school construction across the district.