This page serves as a central hub for information and updates on our current and upcoming capital projects. As part of our long-range facilities planning efforts, the district continuously evaluates building conditions, enrollment trends, and programming needs to prioritize capital improvements. Our work is guided by a five-year Capital Improvement Plan, which is updated annually to reflect current data, evolving needs, and responsible financial stewardship.
Here you will find project descriptions, scope, timelines, budgets, and key milestones.
We encourage you to check back regularly as we share progress and celebrate important milestones together.
Capital Improvement Plan Facilities Committee Page
Upcoming Projects
Richmond Elementary Addition & Improvements
Community Unit School District 303 is constructing a building addition and completing several facility improvements at Richmond Elementary to support current and future student needs. The project includes two new classrooms on the north side of the building, interior renovations to support the addition, new auxiliary learning spaces, replacement of the gymnasium flooring, partial roof replacement, exterior asphalt and sidewalk improvements, and expansion of the building’s fire sprinkler system to provide full coverage.
These improvements will modernize learning spaces and provide greater flexibility to accommodate enrollment changes while maintaining high-quality instructional environments. Construction began in early 2026 and is anticipated to be completed in time for the start of the 2026–27 school year.
The project is being managed by Pepper Construction. For construction-related questions, please contact:
● Thomas Somenek, Superintendent – TSomenek@pepperconstruction.com
● Hunter Tongate, Project Engineer – Htongate@pepperconstruction.com
Pepper Construction is working closely with District 303 to ensure the project is completed safely and with minimal disruption to the school community.
3/19/2026
Richmond Elementary School's addition has officially begun. Perimeter site fencing and barricades have been installed around the construction site. Inside the fencing, the old parking lot has been removed, new underground utilities are being installed, an opening in the existing building has been made, and preparations for the new foundation are underway.
4/13/2026
Construction on Richmond Elementary School’s new addition is progressing well. The concrete footings and foundation walls are now complete, and crews are currently building the block walls on top of them. Over the next few weeks, the site will begin to take on a more finished shape. Once the block work is wrapped up, structural steel will be set in place, followed by the start of roofing operations.
4/20/2026
On Tuesday, April 14th, students and staff took part in a truly memorable event: the signing of a structural beam destined for installation in the school's new addition.
This event served as a ceremonial milestone in the ongoing construction project, allowing every member of Richmond Elementary to feel a tangible and personal connection to the future of their school. This opportunity ensures that when the new addition is complete, it will be a space literally built upon the signatures and spirits of the people who call Richmond home.
