The AIACC’s Capitol Forum Sponsors Research on Cost of California Schools

The American Institute of Architects, California Council, (AIACC) Capitol Forum, in partnership with the UC Berkeley Center for Cities and Schools, released research findings regarding the high cost of school construction in California. The report, entitled “The Complex and Multi-Faceted Nature of School Construction Costs: Factors Affecting California,” examines the practices and policies which effect school construction, and analyzes comparative project level data to contrast California schools with similar facilities in other states. In doing so, the researchers determined some of the central factors in determining school construction cost in California. Among these factors were:

* California’s regulatory structure
* Local school district politics, policies & practices
* Regional market conditions

The public’s investment in K-12 schools and universities is enormous. Any cost savings and increased efficiencies in this market sector translates into better planning processes and better buildings, in addition to more children being housed, less bonded indebtedness, and additional resources for other infrastructure needs.

The school construction delivery process should be simplified and made more cost effective.

As a concerned segment of the design and construction industry, The AIACC is looking for positive solutions to these complex questions. This study is the first step taking proactive measures to examine the policies and procedures surrounding the planning, design and construction of public school buildings in California.

Organized in 2005, the Capitol Forum is redefining the way The AIACC conducts advocacy in Sacramento. The Forum is a group of 23 prominent architectural firms in California who are engaged in a proactive effort to establish the architectural profession as an assertive participant in public policy.

The AIACC represents the interests of nearly 11,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, The AIACC’s mission supports architects in their endeavors to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating more livable communities, sustainable designs and quality work environments. Today, The AIACC is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacc.org.