MORROW COUNTY, Ore.-A contractor for safety upgrades and the replacement of Irrigon Jr/Sr High School has been approved.
The Morrow County School District (MCSD) Board of Education agreed to enter into a contract for the district-wide projects with Fowler General Contractors out of Tri-Cities, at the recommendation of the District Evaluation Committee on January 12.
Voters in Morrow County approved a $204.4 million bond to fund the projects in the May 2025 Special Election.
According to MCSD, the upgrade and replacement projects include secure main entry improvements, enhanced camera systems, and door access control at AC Houghton Elementary, Irrigon Elementary, Morrow Education Center, Sam Boardman Elementary, and Windy River Elementary.
“These upgrades are about ensuring our students and staff are safe in their school and able to learn every day,” said Matt Combe, MCSD Superintendent. “This work reflects our commitment to using bond funds responsibly and prioritizing student well-being across the district.”
The current Irrigon Jr/Sr High School has severe structural issues, according to the MCSD, and replacing the building with a new school is the first full project on the district’s timeline, with construction set to begin in 2027.
The Design Advisory Committee will now work to refine floor plans for all three school projects, including Riverside Jr/Sr High School and Heppner Jr/Sr High School.
According to the MCSD, staff, students and the community will have the opportunity to provide input as the safety and replacement projects move forward.
More information about MCSD bond projects, including planning and construction timelines, and opportunities to get involved are available online.
