The apparent low bidder on the Little Theater on the CHS campus was Stethen-Smith Construction Company of Knoxville, but the firm had a mistake of $65,000 on its base bid.
Brian Templeton of Upland Design Group was given approval to continue negotiations with the second low bidder, Construction Consultants of Chattanooga. He has been given a week for the negotiations, with the school board to meet again at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 22.
Templeton said he is finding out that bids are running high right now in the region. He said construction companies are busy and there is not a lack of work, so bids are on the high side.
The board will also decide on one of five options the state has offered on a new entrance to the Cleveland Middle School complex. Some of the property at the front (roadside) will be needed for the highway’s widening project.
The board and school administrators had previously narrowed the options to four, since one proposal would require local funds. The Tennessee Department of Transportation will pay for either of the other options.
Director of Schools Dr. Martin Ringstaff said city traffic experts favor one specific design, which will add turn lanes and enable the city to stack traffic during rush hour.
