The West Ada School District Board of Trustees has unanimously approved moving forward with two major building projects aimed at addressing rapid growth and expanding career-focused learning opportunities for students.
New Lake Hazel Elementary School
The Board approved plans to construct a new elementary school on the current Lake Hazel Elementary site. Enrollment projections indicate a need for more than 220 additional student seats in this area over the next five years.
After evaluating three district-owned sites, the Long-Range Planning Committee—comprised of parents and community members—recommended building a new school on the backside of the existing campus. The committee determined that constructing a new facility is more fiscally responsible than renovating the current building, which would require nearly $8 million in upgrades while still falling short of future capacity needs.
The proposal is to use the same design as Independence Elementary in Star, which is scheduled to open this August. Estimated construction costs are $23.2 million. With plans already completed, construction could begin this fall for the 750-seat school, with a targeted opening in August 2027.
Career Technical Education Center in Meridian
The Board also approved the development of a new Career Technical Education (CTE) Center in Meridian. A vacant warehouse on Locust Grove will be transformed into a modern, hands-on learning facility by August 2027.
The center will offer training in high-demand fields such as residential construction, powersports, and welding, with future program expansions planned in cosmetology and dental assisting.
“As Idaho’s largest workforce development organization, West Ada is committed to ensuring every student graduates with a clear pathway to a meaningful career,” said Dr. David Reinhart, West Ada Chief Operations Officer.
Originally estimated at $16.5 million, the project cost was reduced to $13.8 million through value engineering and design adjustments, including modifications to the interior build-out and parking expansion. West Ada is on track to award more than 1,000 CTE diplomas this May, and the new center will expand that capacity in the years to come.
Funding and Next Steps
Both projects will be funded through legislative support, including House Bill 521, and the district’s strategic financial planning—without increasing taxes for residents. West Ada’s current levy rate is just $1.43 per $100,000 of assessed value. It will not increase.
Once bids are received for both projects, the district will return to the Board of Trustees for final approval of project costs.
The Board Meeting can be watched in its entirety 🔗here.
