Blackford County Schools Launches Largest Building Project in 30 Years

From the Blackford County School Board meetings on January 6, January 20, February 17, and March 17, 2026

Blackford County Schools has begun what the superintendent described as the "largest capital improvement project in the past 30 years" — a major construction project at the high school campus, delivered with no increase to the local tax rate.

As of the March 17 board meeting, the building pad was complete, all storm piping was installed, and concrete foundations were set to begin by late March. Steel and masonry work was expected to start in mid-April. The project uses Building Information Modeling coordination for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, with prefabricated components labeled and shipped for on-site assembly. A public groundbreaking ceremony between the February and March meetings was described as well attended. Completion is projected for April or May 2027.

During construction, the district's main fiber line — which serves all buildings from the high school — was accidentally cut by the contractor despite a proper 811 locate request. The lines were in the same conduit as old expired phone lines, creating confusion. The contractor and internet providers will split the approximately $19,000 cost to permanently relocate the fiber entry point. A federal E-rate discount program offering 90% off could not be used because approval takes seven months.

Residents should note the project is moving forward without a tax increase, though the total project cost, specific scope, and financing mechanism have not been publicly detailed.

Source: YouTube transcripts from Blackford County School District channel, meetings Jan 6–Mar 17, 2026