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WAILUKU >> Education officials have proposed an $8 million elementary school expansion to accommodate west Maui’s growing student population.
Princess Nahienaena Elementary School’s enrollment has increased every year since 2010, the Maui News reported.
There are 113 more students on campus than there were in 2010. Enrollment currently stands at 720 students.
A draft environmental assessment says King Kamehameha III, the only other elementary school in the area, is no longer able to expand. Once full, the school sends students to Princess Nahienaena.
Each floor of the proposed two-level building would cover about 10,000 square feet. Air conditioning would only be installed in the new computer center and in communication rooms.
All other areas would be ventilated and have ceiling fans.
Plans also include a partially covered outdoor learning area.
Construction could start in April 2017, with completion expected before fall 2018.
Department of Education spokesman Brent Suyama says $825,000 would go toward planning, with the remaining $7.3 million funding construction.
The state education department reviewed the draft environmental assessment. Officials expect to determine the project will have no significant impacts.
Notices will be posted during construction to mitigate traffic concerns.
People can submit comments on the assessment by May 9.
$825,000 for planning? You would think there would be a cookie cutter in the drawer somewhere. I guess the campaign donors have to eat.
Actually, there is. I led a project to build a two level structure of flexible spaces equivalent to 10 classrooms and fully a/c. It came in at right about the $6-7 million mark. (it was a few years ago but declining fuel prices should have some impact on bidding.) Facilities Branch still has the complete plans for the structure.