D218 Board approves construction bids for Richards performing arts center

The Board of Education of Community High School District 218 voted unanimously this week to approve construction bids for a new performing arts center at Harold L. Richards High School in Oak Lawn.

Last spring the Board rejected the original construction bids due to excessive cost estimates from the contractors who submitted proposals on the project.

Groundbreaking will happen next month with completion of the project, which will cost an estimated $14 million, in August 2018.

“We’re very excited about how this facility will enhance our drama, choir, and band programs at Richards,” said Superintendent Dr. Ty Harting. “This facility also will serve as a great community resource for District 218.”

The new arts center will attach to the current facility. Totaling 36,400 square feet, the addition will extend from the eastern gymnasium entrance of Richards out toward the tennis courts.

The arts center includes 28,400 square feet of new space at Richards, with an additional 8,000 square feet of remodeled space of the current facility.

Facility highlights include a new theater with 560 seats, a renovated band and choral area with six new practice rooms, teacher offices, a music library, and storage.

The addition includes an auditorium house, stage, prop shop, storage, dressing rooms, and lobby.