An area school board makes a multi-million dollar decision on a controversial building project.  Members of the Altoona Area School Board  have bids in hand for construction and renovation of the senior high school and are expected to vote Monday night on the project.

Original estimates placed the cost at about $88 million,   the district’s website  lists the total amount of the  final project at $74,490,700.

The bulk of the spending , about $46 million would go to low bidder, local contractor J.C. Orr and Sons.

Supporters say the project would solve overcrowding and would upgrade  the district’s facilities to 21st century technology. Opponents  question the scope of the construction/renovation, and argue that it would lead to large tax increases.

The district says if the project’s approved, the goal is to have it completed by the 20-21 school year.

Bids for AASD school construction/renovation project.