CRPUSD Families and Community
Thank you for your patience and support during the construction of our solar project. We know that any disruption to the rhythm of school life, even a temporary one, can be stressful, especially during the morning rush when you are trying to get your child to school and yourself to work. We do not take that lightly, and we want to take a moment to explain what is happening, why it matters, and what you can expect in the weeks and months ahead.
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Construction Information
This summer and fall, construction crews are installing solar canopies and photovoltaic panels at schools across our district as part of a major solar energy project. Work includes solar canopy construction, electrical infrastructure improvements, PV panel installation, and associated utility and access coordination. You may see contractor vehicles, equipment, temporary fencing, and designated construction zones near campus entrances and parking areas during this period.
Here is the current schedule by site:
|
School |
Estimated Construction |
|
Lawrence E. Jones Middle: Parking Lot |
July 21 - October 16 |
|
Evergreen Elementary: Field/Playground |
August 3 - September 24 |
|
Thomas Page Academy: Field/Playground |
August 3 - September 24 |
|
Technology Middle School: Parking Lot |
August 17 - October 30 |
|
Monte Vista Elementary: Field/Playground |
September 14 - October 30 |
|
Richard Crane Elementary: Field/Playground |
September 28 - November 20 |
|
Rancho Cotate High School: Parking Lot |
November 2 - February |
Please note that all dates are approximate and may shift due to weather, inspections, material availability, or construction progress. Your school's principal will communicate any significant changes that affect campus access, parking, or the flow of drop-off and pick-up as they arise.
We want to share the reason behind this construction because we believe you deserve to understand not just the disruption, but the purpose behind it.
California school districts are facing serious and sustained fiscal pressure. Energy costs are one of the most significant and fastest-growing expenses in our operating budget, competing directly with the teachers, counselors, programs, and resources our students depend on. This solar project is one of the most impactful investments we can make to change that equation.
Once complete, solar energy will reduce our electricity costs. The construction happening outside your child's school this fall is not just infrastructure; it is long-term financial health and sustainability.
During construction periods at your child's school, we ask that you:
- Allow a few extra minutes for drop-off and pick-up, as traffic patterns near campus may be affected
- Follow all traffic control signage and the direction of any personnel managing campus access
- Reach out to your school's office if you have questions or concerns; we are always here to help
This project is possible because of the community's investment in our bond measures and other state funding opportunities, and it will benefit every student and family in this district for decades to come. We are grateful for your trust, your patience, and your continued partnership as we build a stronger, more sustainable CRPUSD together.
Rancho Cotate High School
Timing and schedule
Why is construction starting in November instead of over the summer?
We prefer to build over summer break, but we couldn’t start until we had state approvals, including Division of the State Architect review, geological surveys, and permits. If you
review the board actions below, you will see the timeline and reasons for the August 2027 start date. The Rancho Cotate project was also set to begin a month earlier, but the solar company
delayed it.
Why can’t the project wait until next summer?
To qualify for NEM 2.0 (Net Energy Metering 2.0) solar credits, the RCHS project must be finished by February 2027. Waiting would mean losing those credits and their long-term savings.
Meeting the February 2027 deadline is critical to protecting these benefits and maximizing the long-term financial value of the project.
When will the RCHS project be finished?
The student parking lot will be fully closed for several weeks at first. After that, it will reopen in sections as panels are installed and each section is completed. The phase of the project
that affects Rancho Cotate parking will be entirely finished in February 2027.
Will winter weather or other issues cause delays?
The construction team has planned the schedule with the winter weather in mind and is committed to finishing at RCHS by February 2027.
Other district solar projects seemed to stall. How will this one stay on track?
The solar projects at our other schools are within the completion window. However, there have been delays at all sites.
Who is managing the project?
Josh Savage, Executive Director of Facilities, Maintenance and Operations, and John Bartolome, Chief Business Officer, manage the project for CRPUSD. Emcor Group is the construction partner,
and Arch Anchor provides the financing.
Will there be a published timeline?
Yes. We will post the project timeline and updates at crpusd.org/Solar-Project-
Student Parking
The student parking lot will be impacted, beginning with a full closure on Monday, November 2nd. The student parking lot will NOT be available, and students will not be able to park on campus.
Students with an RCHS PARKING PERMIT will be able to park at Sonoma State University (Lot R3).
Drive along the red path to parking lot R3, and walk on the green walking path to the RCHS campus.
When does the student lot closure begin?
November 2. The student parking lot will not be available beginning on this day.
Can students park on campus during the solar project?
No. Campus parking will not be available beginning Nov. 2. Students will not be permitted to park on campus during the solar project.
How long will the student parking lot be completely closed?
We anticipate the entire student parking lot will be closed for several weeks during the initial phase of construction. Following this initial closure, portions of the parking lot will gradually reopen as construction progresses and solar panels are installed.
Where can students park while the Rancho parking lot is closed?
Sonoma State University parking area for Rancho Cotate students during the construction period.
Do students need a parking permit?
Yes. Students are required to have a valid Rancho Cotate parking permit displayed on their vehicle. SSU will ticket non-permitted cars.
Students can obtain a parking permit through this link: RCHS Parking Permit
Pick up the permit in the Rancho Cotate High School main office after the form is filled out.
Will the student drop-off lane be affected?
No. The student drop-off lane will remain open and will not be blocked by the solar project. However, families should expect increased traffic around campus and allow additional time during drop-off and arrival.
Should I leave earlier than usual?
Yes. We anticipate increased traffic congestion and additional pedestrian traffic around the school. We strongly encourage students and families to leave earlier and allow extra time for parking and walking to campus.
Will there be more pedestrians?
Please drive slowly, follow all traffic directions, and be especially mindful of students and pedestrians.
Will accessible/handicap parking be available?
Yes. Accessible parking spaces will remain available for students and families who need accessible parking.
Where do families park for athletic events?
The Community Center will be available for parking during Rancho Cotate athletic events, providing additional parking for students, families, and visitors attending games and activities.
Will the entire parking lot remain closed for the entire solar project?
No. The project will occur in two phases. While the entire student parking lot will initially be closed for approximately several, portions of the lot will gradually reopen as construction progresses.
Why does the parking lot need to close?
The fencing and temporary closure are necessary to create a safe and secure work area for the construction team while the solar project is being completed.
What should students and families do to help?
The most important things families can do are:
- Plan and allow extra time for arrival and parking.
- Follow all posted signs and directions from staff.
- Drive slowly and carefully around campus.
- Watch carefully for pedestrians.
- Make sure vehicles have the required parking permit.
- Be patient and flexible as construction progresses.