Plymouth school board approves $3.7 million architectural and engineering renovation package

Friday, December 5, 2025 at 2:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

The Plymouth Community School Board approved an agreement for a renovation plan this week that will modernize facilities across the district, with projects targeting the high school gymnasium, elementary school cooling systems, and critical electrical infrastructure.

The Plymouth School Board unanimously voted to accept the proposal from Barton Coe Vilamaa Architects & Engineers of Fort Wayne, totaling $3,706,228, which includes $3,497,228 in construction costs and $209,000 for architecture and engineering services.

Superintendent Mitch Mawhorter detailed the three priority projects for the 2026 renovation and timeline with GIANT fm WTCA.

The $2.1 million varsity gymnasium upgrade represents the largest investment in the package. School officials are working to complete the project before the start of volleyball season next fall, ensuring minimal disruption to athletic programs.

Washington and Menominee Elementary Schools will receive new chillers for $1.168 million. The installation is scheduled for fall 2026, after the peak summer cooling period ends, to avoid impacting students during the hottest months.

A $222,480 electrical gear replacement at the high school will address aging infrastructure. The work is tentatively planned for fall break next year, when the building can sustain a temporary power shutdown.

The renovations will be financed through a portion of the $7.141 million bond the board approved Tuesday night. The remaining bond funds will support other district priorities.

"Additionally, we plan to use bond funds for a refresh of the one-to-one technology program, which is expected to occur in about a year," Mawhorter said, indicating the district's commitment to keeping student devices current.

The superintendent recommended approval of the proposal, noting the strategic timing of each project to minimize disruptions to students and school operations.