How do Wake's construction costs compare to other school districts in North Carolina?
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A: For every year from 2001 through 2005, WCPSS bid day building costs for new schools have been below the average Department of Public Instruction cost per square foot. If other counties' school construction costs seem lower, often times it's because it isn't an apples to apples comparison. Before comparing counties' school construction costs, find out what's included in the amount.
Figures are based on data from DPI’s website dated 3/17/06 of new schools bid across the state as reported by bid year.
When you add site costs to the mix, in the years 2001-2003, WCPSS costs still remain below the average cost. For 2004-05, WCPSS costs exceed the average due to rising site work costs.
Why are Wake’s sitework costs higher than average?
Stringent local regulations (e.g. requiring a half-mile of onsite driveways to accommodate elementary parent drop-off/pick-up and restrictive tree protection and buffer requirements)
Limited number of easy-to-develop sites
High cost of offsite roadway improvements in a congested county
Limited competition due to a surging construction market