Henry Clay High School Construction Faces $34 Million Cost Overrun, Totaling $185.6 Million

Lexington, Ky. — The construction of the new Henry Clay High School has hit a significant snag, with costs rising an additional $34 million. During a Fayette County Public Schools board meeting on Monday, it was revealed that the updated total cost for the new facility is now $185.6 million.

The cost escalation is attributed to revisions made in the building’s design, which will include three stories and two courtyards. District officials cite a nationwide increase in both labor and material prices as key factors behind the additional expenses. Nearly $30 million of the increase will be allocated specifically to construction and labor, while the remaining $4 million will focus on upgrades for IT and computer equipment.

The timeline for the construction completion is set for winter 2028. District leaders are optimistic that despite the rising costs, the new school will provide an improved learning environment for students.

This project underscores the broader challenges facing educational institutions amid escalating costs in construction and technology. As the planning moves forward, the focus will remain on delivering a state-of-the-art facility that meets the needs of the community.