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The Gresham-Barlow School District is building two new elementary schools this year with money from a $291 million bond measure approved by district voters in 2016. Ground has been broken on the first facility: North Gresham Elementary School on Southeast 217th Avenue.

This new school, which is being built to replace an existing one, will include: better classroom layouts to improve student flow, improved daylight and HVAC systems, a better learning environment stocked with modern technology, and safety and security upgrades. The latter will provide secured entry to playing fields and the playground, a secured entry vestibule and improved bus parking and parental pick-up areas.

Last week, crews with general contractor Bremik Construction and LaRusso Concrete, subcontracted for the place and finish of concrete, poured the first set of concrete panels for the tilt-up structure. A total of 56 panels will be poured before a lift day scheduled for next month. Construction will continue throughout the current school year and the new facility is expected to open in time for the 2019-20 school year.

In addition to general contractor Bremik Construction, the project team includes BBT Architects and Cornerstone Management, which is performing construction management for the school district.