Buckeye looking to move forward with construction manager for district's faculties plan

YORK TWP. — Buckeye Schools is looking into contracting with CT Taylor Construction to serve as the construction manager for the district's self-funded facilities plan. The Buckeye Board of Education approved a resolution ranking construction managers that interviewed and applied for the project during its meeting Tuesday. CT Taylor Construction ranked first, The Ruhlin Co. came in second, Beaver Constructors placed third with Shook Construction Co. Inc. following. "CT Taylor is based in Hudson," Superintendent Jeff Stanton said. "They are the (construction manager at risk) that built Cloverleaf, for context. We're very pleased with the companies that bid for the construction project. They are all outstanding companies, all with some local ties." Board member Seth Kujat said hiring a construction manager with a strong history of working with the architect and having the project manager close to the job site are two important factors when selecting a construction manager. "CT Taylor checked those two boxes and many more," he said. "CT Taylor comes strongly recommended, one of many firms that came recommended, from the architecture firm that we hired." Stanton said he and Treasurer Mark Donnelly will now get into a contract discussion with CT Taylor. In October, the board approved working with architectural firm GPD Group for the project. "We are excited to move forward with partners who understand the educational and financial priorities of our district," Stanton said. "Both firms bring extensive experience with (kindergarten through) 12 educational projects and will work closely with the district to develop and manage designs that meet the needs of students, staff and the community." The district's self-funded facilities plan consists of Buckeye building a new high school and renovating the existing high school to become the future Buckeye Junior High School. The school board approved the plan in August, which stated the district's intent to fund the project with cash reserves, capital fund allocations and a certificate of participation loan. Buckeye said preliminary visioning work probably will start in early 2026, which will include opportunities for staff and community input. The district intends to publicize construction timelines, project milestones and further updates throughout the process. For more information on the project, visit tinyurl.com/5vv64tyr. Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.