Rapid City Area Schools board members voted unanimously Tuesday night to move forward with a $107 million facilities bond aimed at addressing aging infrastructure across the district.
The bond, part of the district’s facilities master plan, focuses heavily on replacing outdated heating and cooling systems to prevent weather-related school closures. About $32 million is dedicated to HVAC and air quality upgrades at several schools, including Horace Mann Elementary, Meadowbrook Elementary and North Middle School.
The proposal also includes districtwide security upgrades, renovations to eliminate portable classrooms, and construction of a new elementary school in south Rapid City to relieve overcrowding. The bond was reduced from an initial $125 million to limit taxpayer impact. District officials estimate the bond would cost owners of a $400,000 home about $196 per year.
While some residents expressed concern about projects left out, district leaders said the plan balances urgent needs with affordability. The bond will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot and will require a 60% supermajority to pass.
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