Brazos County Commission Awards Demolition Contract for Former Bryan ISD Administration Building
The iconic Bryan ISD administration structure located in downtown Bryan is set to meet its demise soon. The Brazos County commissioners, who purchased the original bank building now turned administration facility back in November 2021, have recently awarded a contract for its demolition.
Broad Support for Demolition
Prior to the consensus, Commissioners Steve Aldrich and Nancy Berry stimulated discussion by recalling the implosion of the former Plaza Hotel located at Texas and University, a grand event that transpired in May 2012. The demolition contract is expected to cost $264,000, including a $40,000 additional fee for the removal of two portable buildings located at the juvenile justice center. Furthermore, an additional $7,000 will be needed for the removal of a structure termed as a “center house” from the county jail.
Looking Ahead
The decision to demolish the former Bryan ISD administration building aligns with the Commission’s previous decision in December 2023 to contract the design of a new building at the once BISD/bank structure site. However, County Judge Duane Peters admitted at the time that a conclusive decision had not yet been taken regarding the occupant or occupants of the upcoming structure.
Other Major Works in Brazos County
Besides the Bryan ISD administration building, other major infrastructural changes are in the pipeline for Brazos County. For instance, motorists in Bryan City will not have access to South College Avenue located between Villa Maria and Carson till late 2025. Initially scheduled for a construction period of 360 days, this timeline has stretched to 509 days.
Delays seem to be caused by Optimum and Frontier having to move fiberoptic lines to their correct locations. There have been claims that the general contractor is pursuing damages amounting to $1 million against Optimum and Frontier for delays occasioned by their incorrect installation.
The Security Situation in Brazos County
In other news, law enforcement officers managed an arrest following a chase approximately 40 miles long. Their efforts led to the apprehension of a man currently held for evading arrest among other charges from multiple counties.
Brazos County has witnessed recurrences of similar incidents lately. In a separate case recently, a county deputy nabbed a driver following another vehicle far too closely on Highway 21 near the Brazos River. The driver alighted and attempted to escape on foot but was quickly restrained after a short chase.
These incidents have brought the topic of law enforcement and public safety back to the forefront of county discussions.
Planning Ahead: July 4th Fireworks Show
Amid the changes and challenges, Brazos county is looking forward to hosting its July 4th Fireworks Show, this time, handled by a new entity, Savage Outdoor and Defense. The long-cherished event promises to offer great family-friendly activities leading up to the highlight – the fireworks display. Proceeds from the event will be shared between the fire district, the Brazos County first responders association, and the National Wild Turkey Foundation.
