Bids wanted for Mundelein High expansion project

After months of planning, Mundelein High School officials are seeking construction bids for a $23.6 million expansion project.

The three-story addition will be dedicated to science, math, technology and engineering. It will include large science labs, space for students to work cooperatively and other features.

A state grant will cover about $8.3 million of the cost.

Officials want to start construction in May 2015 and have it wrapped up by August 2016.

The school board voted Tuesday to get proposals from construction companies.

"We are very excited to move into the next phase of the building addition project," Superintendent Kevin Myers told the Daily Herald. "The addition ... will have a positive impact on our community and increase the learning opportunities for students and staff."

Officials hope to get bids back in January, ahead of an anticipated vote to hire a contractor in February, school spokesman Ron Girard said.