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BASTROP — Bastrop Independent School District officials say construction funded by the district’s 2023 bond program is advancing steadily, with several major campus projects nearing completion.
Executive Director of Facilities and Support Services Lee Raspberry delivered an update at the Jan. 20 school board meeting, outlining progress on new schools, additions and renovations tied to the voter- approved bond. The $321.5 million package provides $272 million for new campuses and classroom expansions, $31 million for major capital improvements and nearly $18 million toward safety, security and a police administration building.
According to the board, investments are intended to support enrollment growth while modernizing aging campuses.
Renovations at Mina Elementary are about 78% complete as the campus moves through Phase 2 of construction, Raspberry said. Work includes new exterior brick veneer, flooring, restrooms, paint and elevator installation.
A redesigned kitchen, modeled after recently completed elementary schools, with restaurant- style layout also aims to improve meal services.
“It works really well for getting kids in and getting kids out to serving lines,” Raspberry said. “They are enjoying all the new equipment that we’re putting into those kitchens.”
Additions at Bastrop and Cedar Creek middle schools are essentially finished, with both projects about 99% complete. According to Raspberry, furniture has been delivered and certificates of occupancy were issued in early December.
“This project is on schedule and within budget, as well,” Raspberry said.
The competition gym renovations at Riverside and Creekside middle schools are roughly 90% complete. However, existing renovations are ongoing, including a major roof replacement at the Creekside practice gym.
“Staff love it and the players love it,” Raspberry said. “It really, really looks great.”
Progress at Bastrop High School is in earlier stages, and those additions and renovations are about 25% complete. The high school will feature a new 38,000-square-foot classroom wing, competition gym, dance studio and a multi-year roof replacement.
That project is estimated to be on track for a December 2027 completion.
Renovations at Cedar Creek High School are complete, with only minor touch-ups remaining. Raspberry described the work as a “wonderful job.”
Construction of the Bastrop ISD Police Administration and Operations facility is about 85% complete, with district officials targeting a spring 2026 opening. The building will feature a large training room capable of accommodating up to 420 staff members, along with a dedicated warehouse space to support district operations.
Raspberry credited the district’s construction partners and campus staff for helping keep work moving while schools have been in use during the academic year.
