Cost Concerns, Economic Anxieties Put Construction on Shaky Ground

Years of rising fuel and materials costs, compounded by current budget shortfalls and uncertainty about the marketability of construction bonds, have made school facilities directors eager to reap the benefits of President Barack Obama's economic-recovery initiative, which is slated to include federal money for building and modernizing schools.

"Most school districts feel a tremendous need [for construction funds]," said Gordon Beck, the director of school facilities and organization for Washington state. "Whatever funding can come from the federal stimulus is like a godsend, and would certainly do great things."

The Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives released their version of the bill on Jan. 15. It would set aside $14 billion for local school districts for a school modernization and repair program, which includes technology upgrades and energy-efficiency improvements. ( "Stimulus Plan Aids Education," ...