Building Upgrades, Additions To Track Focus Of Owasso Schools Bond Vote

Voters in Owasso will soon decide on a nearly $84 million bond for upgrades and improvements across the district. The money would be used over five years and is not projected to increase taxes.

The district has outlined the need for new roofs, carpet and paint at different campuses. The needs are included in the bond so they won’t have to be taken from the district’s general fund, which is used for teachers and classrooms.

Money would also be allocated to install safe structures to Hodson Elementary and the 8th Grade Center.

Plans also call for new additions to the track at the high school, including bleachers to accommodate up to 1,500 people. Restrooms, concessions and storage areas would also be built.

The district says the track was built in 1982, and would be the last facility on the high school campus to receive a facelift. Football, soccer and potentially lacrosse games could also be hosted at the updated track site.

Owasso Schools is hopeful the upgrades would help them become a host site for district competitions, which then could help stimulate the city’s economy.

“We have members of the community that go to the track a lot, so we want to make sure that we can present a quality environment for everyone in our community and our students,” said Dr. Margaret Coates, interim superintendent for Owasso Public Schools.

The district is hosting a public meeting on Thursday, March 24 to discuss the bond vote and any questions from voters at the Education Service Center.

The bond vote will be on ballots on April 5’s Election Day.