Dunlap School District 323 Superintendent Dr. Scott Dearman clarified the association of contractors for the new $8.5 million athletic training center at the Oct. 16 school board meeting.

Vantage Architectural and construction management company Estes share common ownership, but the relationship is not a problem. To ensure checks and balances, District 323 will have two separate contracts, one with Estes and one with Vantage. District attorneys have reviewed the contracts and are comfortable with them.

The 42,000-square-foot complex at Legion Hall Road and Cedar Hills Drive is meant to relieve overcrowding in the district’s current athletic facilities. Completion is expected in early 2026. The board approved the contract 6-0.

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