Bond 2024 brings new facilities, upgrades and $4.8M in savings to date

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rendering of multipurpose facility

Longview ISD continues to make steady progress on projects funded through the 2024 voter-approved bond, with new updates and design milestones shared at the March Board of Trustees meeting. From early childhood education to athletic upgrades, the district remains committed to building high-quality facilities that reflect the needs and values of the Longview community.

Architectural design and planning are moving forward on all major new construction projects. 

The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center, Multi-Purpose Indoor Facility, and Natatorium are each advancing through the schematic design phase. The CTE Center will support expanded programs in areas such as healthcare, technology, and the trades, while the  Multi-Purpose Facility is being designed as a shared space for athletics and fine arts, featuring a full-length turf field, indoor training spaces, and flexible student use areas. The new Natatorium will replace the current aquatic center with a 35,000-square-foot facility featuring 25-meter lanes, diving boards, and spectator seating. 

Two additional bond projects were highlighted this month, both aimed at meeting the district’s long-term operational and enrollment needs. 

The Early Childhood Learning Center will house more than 30 classrooms along with a library, kitchen, and gymnasium, greatly expanding access to pre-kindergarten for families across Longview ISD. 

Meanwhile, the Transportation Center will receive a 13,000-square-foot addition to better accommodate current and future fleet operations. 

Both projects are expected to begin construction later this year, with the Early Childhood Center projected for completion in Fall 2027 and the Transportation Center set to open by Summer 2026.

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fencing at longview high school

While large-scale construction is on the horizon, work is already underway on several fronts. Security fencing continues to be installed across campuses, and lighting upgrades at Judson Stadium have been completed. Work at the Lobo Coliseum is scheduled to begin in early April, enhancing visibility and safety at indoor events. In addition, the district continues to coordinate Owner-Direct Purchases such as HVAC and lighting systems, which help reduce costs and streamline timelines.

In total, 11 Requests for Proposals (RFPs) totaling $39.5 million have been released so far, with two already awarded and three approved at this month's board meeting. Four more RFPs are expected to be reviewed in April. The district has also begun issuing Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) for architectural services related to campus renovations, ensuring a consistent and high-quality approach across all bond projects. 

Through careful planning and procurement, Longview ISD has achieved $4.8 million in cost savings to date—funds that can be reinvested into additional improvements.
 

“We’re building more than facilities—we’re building equity and opportunity,” said Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard. “Every project is guided by a commitment to student success, safety, and community pride. Our community trusted us to deliver, and we take that responsibility seriously. It’s exciting to see these plans moving into action.”

To learn more and follow monthly progress updates, visit www.w3.lisd.org/bond2024.