Contractor selected for Irrigon Jr./Sr. High School replacement
By Griffin Beach on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
IRRIGON – The Morrow County School District has approved a contract with Richland-based Fowler General Construction for the replacement of Irrigon Junior/Senior High School.
The project is funded by a $204.4 million bond approved by voters in May 2025. In addition to the school replacement, Fowler was awarded the contract for district-wide safety and security upgrades.
Superintendent Matt Combe noted that contractors have not yet been selected for several other bond projects, including the Riverside Junior/Senior High School remodel, the conversion of Heppner Junior/Senior High School into a K-12 campus, and traffic improvements at Sam Boardman Elementary.
The new Irrigon Junior/Senior High School will be constructed adjacent to the current facility, which is being replaced due to structural issues. Design development is underway, with construction slated to begin in 2027.
District-wide safety improvements will include secure main entry upgrades, enhanced camera systems, and modernized door access controls at the following locations:
- AC Houghton Elementary
- Irrigon Elementary
- Morrow Education Center
- Sam Boardman Elementary
- Windy River Elementary
“These upgrades are about ensuring our students and staff are safe in their school and able to learn every day,” Combe said. “This work reflects our commitment to using bond funds responsibly and prioritizing student well-being across the district.”
Design Advisory Committees representing Boardman, Heppner, and Irrigon are currently refining floor plans to emphasize day-to-day functionality. SAJ Architecture is supporting the effort by interviewing principals and surveying staff to identify instructional and operational needs.
Photo of Irrigon Junior/Senior High School interior showing support beams installed to mitigate structural issues.
