HAR Construction dismissed from Southwest High and Southwest Middle projects for failure to perform
The Sweetwater Union High School District has terminated HAR Construction from its contracts at Southwest High and Southwest Middle schools because of the company's failure to execute work in an efficient manner to stay on schedule. The contractor failed to supply enough skilled workers, which further delayed construction schedules, resulting in a project that is behind schedule.
After serious concerns regarding the construction schedule delays, the district served HAR with a notice of intention to terminate the contract in May, which gave HAR the opportunity to correct its actions. Despite this opportunity, corrections were not made, and the contract was terminated June 21.
"It is the District's responsibility to guard public funds and to ensure that those funds are utilized properly," said Dr. Edward M. Brand, Acting Superintendent. "This is a responsibility that we take very seriously."
A new two-story classroom building and lunch shelter has been under construction at Southwest High School as part of the first phase of a $644 million construction bond program, Proposition O. Southwest Middle School is in the process of receiving modernization to two classroom buildings, a woodshop building, library and boys and girls locker rooms, as well as a new classroom building and an expanded quad area. The district is dedicated to maintaining an efficiently-managed construction program that results in first-class educational facilities for its students. The district is currently in discussions with the bonding company to have construction resume as soon as possible.
HAR has submitted claims for both Southwest High and Southwest Middle School projects in excess of $15 million, in addition to what the firm has already collected from the district. Sweetwater is in the process of carefully reviewing and analyzing these additional claims.
About Prop O
The Prop O bond program provides $644 million in funds necessary to address the critical and urgent needs of schools in the Sweetwater Union High School District. Proposition O funds the repairs and improvements needed to ensure that the 43,000 middle and high school students and 27,000 adult learners attending District schools are in a safe, healthy and quality learning environment. For more information visit www.buildingpropo.com or call 1-888-680-PROPO.