(KMZA)--Following several years of discussion, bids have been approved for construction and remodeling projects at three schools in Prairie Hills USD 113.

The USD 113 Board of Education took the action when they meet Monday evening on a 6-1 vote, with board member Jim Scoby casting the lone dissenting vote.

Superintendent Todd Evans said the board approved a guaranteed maximum price of $4.893 million presented by Jay Herrmann of AHRS Construction, construction manager at risk on the project.

The project will include renovation of the Sabetha Elementary, Axtell and Wetmore schools.  In addition, the project includes new construction at the Sabetha Elementary School of a media center, music room and gym. The media center and music room will be storm shelter-rated. 

Work is to begin around April 1.

The project will be paid for using contingency funds, capital outlay funds and through a lease-purchase agreement.  In addition, an anonoymous donor is providing $500,000 for the project.