New School Slightly Over Budget, Behind

The Conejo Valley school district’s newest elementary school is about $92,000 over budget and will be finished 12 days late, according to school officials.

But not to worry, according to Sean Corrigan, district planning and facilities manager.

The cost overruns at Lang Ranch Elementary School so far amount to only 1.4% of the total $6.6-million price tag. Most school construction projects run over original bidding costs by 5% to 10%, he said.

The increased costs are due to slight structural changes, as mandated by the state architectural board, as well as the creation of a third kindergarten classroom, which is expected to cost about $50,000. The money will come from the district’s developer donation fund.

El Nino rains are the major cause of the school’s construction delay, Corrigan said. Students still will be able to start class as scheduled on Sept. 2, although workers probably will be tying up loose ends for another week, he said.