Missouri town approves $100 million school infrastructure bond

Voters in Blue Springs, Missouri, approved a $100 million bond issue for the Blue Springs School District (BSSD) to build a Career and Innovation Center, build performing arts facilities and improve existing school facilities. Blue Springs is 19 miles east of Kansas City.

The bond allows BSSD to replace the existing Career and Innovation Center. The district has expanded or renovated the 69-year-old facility eight times since its construction. The building has outdated infrastructure issues, including electricity systems, HVAC systems and locker rooms that are nearly 70 years old. BSSD will build a modern center after demolishing the current facility.

The modern center will provide spaces for health sciences, physical therapy, business and entrepreneurship, gaming and technology, aviation, culinary arts and hospitality. The building will feature flexible learning spaces, a roof terrace and a rooftop lounge. The facility will also include a restaurant and gym.

BSSD includes four middle schools, all of which will receive performing arts centers that double as high-wind storm shelters. The schools’ performances and concerts are currently hosted in the cafeterias. The performing arts centers provide ample room for theater productions as well as rooms for school bands.

Plans also include building additional office space at three of BSSD’s elementary schools – Franklin Smith, James Walker and William Yates. The office space will accommodate changing staff needs for counselors, mental health professionals, social workers and assistant principals.

The district will expand William Yates Elementary with four additional classrooms. The school is currently at maximum capacity. In addition, BSSD will update Franklin Smith Elementary’s windows and facade.

Now that the bond has been passed, all projects will begin immediately. BSSD will complete the Career and Innovation Center by August 2026. Additions to the middle school will conclude by August 2025. The district will finish all remaining projects during the 2024-2025 school year.

^{Strategic Partnerships, Inc.}^{can provide information on contract opportunities, plus existing and future government funding. For more information, contact}^{research@spartnerships.com}^.