Modernizing aging school facilities while keeping campuses operational is driving a multi-district renovation program across Oregon, with projects addressing building systems, safety, accessibility and learning environments.
Howard S. Wright, a Balfour Beatty company, is delivering projects for the David Douglas, Oregon City and Tigard-Tualatin school districts. The work is being phased around school operations and includes upgrades to existing facilities rather than new campus construction.
In Portland, work for David Douglas School District includes renovations at Gilbert Park Elementary School and Earl Boyles Elementary School. The scope addresses deferred maintenance and building-system improvements, including HVAC upgrades, electrical and generator work, fire alarm replacements and secure entry vestibules.
Specialty learning spaces are also being renovated. The program follows earlier Howard S. Wright work completed at West Powellhurst Elementary School, Floyd Light Middle School and South Powellhurst facilities in 2025. David Douglas' project updates also identify Howard S. Wright as the construction manager/general contractor for related bond-funded improvements.
Oregon City School District's second phase includes improvements at King and Candylane elementary schools and career and technical education areas at Oregon City High School. Planned work includes cafeteria expansions, kitchen replacements, accessibility improvements and upgrades intended to modernize aging facilities.
Howard S. Wright has also been selected for the district's next phase, with renovations at Redland Elementary School and Pioneer Stadium scheduled to begin in 2027.
For Tigard-Tualatin School District, renovation work is underway at Edward Byrom Elementary School and Mary Woodward Elementary School. The projects include accessibility improvements, building-system modernization, updated learning spaces, campus entry work and building-envelope improvements.
The Oregon program illustrates how school districts are using bond-funded capital programs to extend the useful life of existing facilities while addressing safety, accessibility and infrastructure needs. Phased construction also allows districts to advance improvements while limiting disruption to ongoing school operations.
Source: Balfour Beatty.
