What projects will Mendez Middle School receive as part of the 2022 Bond?

Mendez Middle School will receive comprehensive improvements through the 2022 Bond, which will include secure entry vestibule, infrastructure improvements such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing improvements, a school mental health center, upgrades to fine arts and a community food pantry. Improvements will also be made to the building exterior and roof.

How much will this project cost?

The total project budget for Mendez Middle School is $19,552,000. This includes the budget for construction, as well as associated fees for services and materials.
 

What is the project timeline? When will it be open to students?

The design process for Mendez Middle School began in Spring 2024 and construction is anticipated to begin in Fall 2024. The planned improvements are expected to be complete in fall 2025.

What is a comprehensive project?

A comprehensive project includes significant space improvements for programming and/or services offered at a campus or facility that is not an Open Concept or Full Modernization project. Improvements are meant to address building deficiencies, educational suitability, and capacity in line with the Educational Specifications and Project Development Manual. 

Which spaces will be renovated as part of the comprehensive project?

The project will include a secure entry vestibule, learning spaces, and the addition of a school mental health center. Any additional space improvements will be determined using the available budget and input from the Mendez Architectural Team made up of Austin ISD and Third Future staff members in order to ensure the project best fits the needs of the school. 

How will construction impact students and teachers? Will they have to relocate to portables or another location during construction?

The safety of our students and staff during construction is our top priority. We expect minimal relocation or “swinging” of some student programs to other locations within the campus for the purpose of avoiding construction areas as much as possible.

How will construction impact neighbors who live near the school?

Neighbors in the immediate area surrounding the school will be notified before the start of construction and will be made aware of any major changes during construction. While every project is different, activities to expect include; temporary fencing installed around the active construction site, trucks entering and exiting the primary construction area; neighbors may hear backup alarms while equipment and trucks are on site. There will also be hammering, drilling and other general construction equipment noises. 

What steps are being taken to keep students safe during construction?

All contractors and vendors who work on an Austin ISD site will have gone through a full background check. Any areas of the campus that are under construction will either be fenced or have temporary walls to prevent students from entering active construction areas. The project team coordinates with campus leadership to minimize disruptions to the learning environment.

What happens to the contents of a building that is being renovated?

Austin ISD is committed to sustainability and recycles or re-purposes as much as possible from buildings that are being modernized or renovated..

How do I get involved with the project and provide input?

A modified Campus Architectural Team (CAT) made up of the charter administration and department directors, has been formed to provide input on the project. The meetings are open to the public and public comment will be allowed at the start of each meeting. There will also be two community meetings or engagement opportunities over the course of the project for families, staff and community members to get an update on progress and provide input. Those meeting dates and times will be published at AustinISD.org and AISDFuture.com once they are confirmed. 

Who can I contact with questions or feedback?

Please reach out to the district via the Bond Questions and Comments Form. You can also visit AISDFuture.com for additional information on the 2022 Bond.