S. M. Wilson & Co. Completes Northwest R-1 School District Bond Program Projects

Northwest R-1 School District has completed a districtwide bond program of construction projects delivered by S. M. Wilson & Co. serving as Construction Manager at Risk. Funded through the $28 million Proposition S bond issue the program included updates at every campus with a focus on ADA accessibility safety and security improvements aligned with the district’s long-term facilities plan.

The scope featured three major additions designed as ICC 500–rated storm shelters to enhance student athletics and activities. Work included a 15,000-square-foot weight and wrestling room at Northwest High School a 10,000-square-foot athletic gym addition at House Springs Elementary School and a 5,100-square-foot fine arts addition at Valley Middle School.

Construction began in May 2024. While the district’s original schedule anticipated 29 months, S. M. Wilson developed and executed an alternate 22-month plan saving both time and costs. The accelerated delivery was achieved through early bid packages advancing the high school addition and strategic project phasing based on campus location. Paragon Architecture provided architectural services.

Because work occurred across multiple occupied campuses, S. M. Wilson implemented customized phasing and safety plans at each site to protect student health and maintain campus security. Monthly drone flyovers with 360-degree captures supported quality control facilities documentation and progress reporting. The team also hosted video walk-throughs through S. M. Wilson’s technology platform to keep stakeholders informed.

Additional district upgrades included installation of an ADA lift at Maple Grove Elementary sitework improvements secure entry enhancements at multiple schools and upgrades to the district’s bus garage.

S. M. Wilson brings deep K–12 experience across the region having partnered with 46 school districts in Missouri and Illinois, including Columbia Public Schools, Francis Howell R-III School District, Hallsville R-IV School District, Jefferson City School District, Ladue School District, Winfield R-IV School District and Pattonville R-III School District, among others.