The new Austin High School soon will have permanent power, marking a significant development for the 2012 Bond project, which is tracking at 60 percent completion. 

The $80.9 million project will feature flexible learning spaces and sound upgrades for the existing auditorium. The new school will also preserve the façade of the original main building, which was constructed in 1937. 

The tilt-wall panels have been raised, the steel structures supporting them have been erected, and the floor slabs have been placed. The first layer of the roofing system has been installed. Transformers and switchgear are set, and wiring has been connected in preparation for permanent power. 

“Having permanent power is an important milestone for large projects, and we expect to have it very soon,” Construction Services Senior Manager Meredith Smith said.  

Construction crews will continue to brick the exterior, install glass walls, and build the connecting passageways to the existing three-story building. Work is also ongoing for interior walls, and mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and life safety systems.  

Within a few weeks, the building will be completely dried in and exterior brickwork will be complete. 

Austin students continue to attend classes in the temporary learning center located across South Lockwood Drive. 

Austin is among 40 schools, including 29 high schools, across the district that are being renovated or rebuilt as part of the 2012 Bond Program.  

More than 85 percent of all school construction projects are complete, and HISD will soon boast one of the most modern portfolios of urban high schools in the country. 

Follow @Build_HISD on Twitter for the latest construction updates on the 2012 Bond Program and school construction across the district. 

Tags: 2012 Bond Program, 2012 bond, Austin High School, Austin HS, Business Operations, News, Project Update, Construction Update, Construction Services