Construction Update for Davidson Middle School, Summer 2024

Posted Date: 8/02/24 (4:54 PM)

Dear Davidson Community,

San Rafael City Schools has unfortunately experienced some substantial delays from two regulatory agencies in their review period for necessary approvals for us to begin construction. Below is more information about the agencies, California Geological Survey and the Division of State Architect. As a result, projects at several schools have been impacted, including Davidson Middle School, where minimal work could be done for a large portion of the 2024 summer and we did not make the progress we anticipated. We are all disappointed that this will extend the project completion timeline and require us to reassess the budget.

As the first day of school nears, your school principal or front office staff will share details about if / how construction may temporarily impact access to certain parts of campus. When available, the Capital Improvement team will publish updated schedules. Visit www.srcsbondprogram.org for up-to-date information. Please contact bondprogram@srcs.org with any questions.

California Geological Survey (CGS)
CGS provides scientific products and services about the state’s geology, seismicity, forests and watersheds, and mineral resources that affect the health, safety of the people of California. Using geoscience information for policy decisions, rural and urban planning, resource development, and infrastructure investments at the state, county and local levels to ensure the safety.

The Division of the State Architect (DSA)
DSA provides design and construction oversight for K–12 schools, community colleges, and various other state-owned and state-leased facilities to ensure that they comply with all structural, accessibility, and fire and life safety codes. To promote consistent knowledge and application of the California Building Codes, as well as information for successful plan review and construction of projects under DSA’s jurisdiction, DSA offers classes through its DSA Academy.

DSA requires a letter of approval from CGS that states the engineering geology and seismology issues at a school are adequately assessed in the construction calculations. This review and comments process historically can take up to 180 days (6 months) to resolve. This year these three sites took up to 227 days. Adding up to a 47 day delay from anticipated start of construction.

DSA historically takes 4 to 6 months for review, and we are now experiencing 7 – 10 months. Also adding delays for planned construction.

Thank you for your continued support and patience.

Sincerely,

Tim Ryan
Senior Director of Strategic Facility Planning
San Rafael City Schools

San Rafael City Schools

www.srcs.org | communications@srcs.org

310 Nova Albion Way
San Rafael, CA 94903