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California District Breaks Ground on Major Campus Renovation

  • By Matt Jones
  • 10/20/26

Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) in Alameda, Calif., recently announced that construction has begun on a major campus overhaul for Otis Elementary School, according to a news release. The district partnered with Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) and Lathrop Construction Associates, Inc., for its design and construction, respectively. Funding comes from the Measure B facilities bond, and construction has an estimated completion date of fall 2028.

The project features 25,000 square feet of new construction composed of a one-story administration and media center building, as well as a two-story classroom building for students in transitional kindergarten (TK), kindergarten, first, fourth, and fifth grade. Renovation work will include modernizing existing facilities for second- and third-grade students to upgrade electrical capacity, install HVAC, and enhance fire alarms.

“Celebrating this milestone alongside our families, students, staff, project team, and neighbors was a proud moment for all of us,” said AUSD Superintendent Pasquale Scuderi. “This project represents a lasting investment in our students and staff, one that will provide them with the vibrant learning environments they deserve for years to come.”

The site modernization also includes an academic quad featuring outdoor learning areas, a student garden, outdoor dining space, and permeable turf. It also includes a fenced-in playground and play area for TK and kindergarten students. Finally, the project encompasses site infrastructure improvements like a roof solar photovoltaic power system, new digital marquee signs, bio-retention basins for stormwater, and updates to perimeter security.

“Our design for this project centers on creating an adaptable, cohesive campus environment that prioritizes student safety and outdoor engagement,” said QKA Principal Joel Williams. “By pairing modern classroom structures with dynamic outdoor gathering spaces, we are crafting a flexible academic campus that will endure as a vital resource for the entire school community.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

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