Fiscal Year 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan Work Session - June 3, 2026

This was a joint work session held on June 3, 2026, between Arlington County, VA, and the Arlington Public Schools (APS) to discuss the Fiscal Year 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting focused extensively on procurement and budget planning for major infrastructure projects, particularly school renovations and maintenance. Key topics included the proposed renovation and addition to Thomas Jefferson Middle School, with cost estimates ranging from $130 million to $170 million, and the later planned Swanson Middle School project. The discussion emphasized maintaining existing facilities, addressing deferred maintenance, and ensuring safety, accessibility, and sustainability. Funding strategies highlighted included bond issuances, capital reserves, project closeout funds, and leveraging federal clean electricity investment credits expected to reimburse nearly $18.79 million. The county manager reported a favorable bond interest rate of 3.609666%, supporting the financing plan. Both the county and school boards stressed the importance of coordinated planning, fiscal stewardship, and community engagement, with final CIP adoption anticipated in mid-2026 and voter referenda scheduled for November. The meeting also addressed challenges related to aging facilities, regulatory compliance, and potential public-private partnerships for future projects such as parking garages to support electric vehicle fleets.