Construction for Wilsonville High School's performing arts center expansion has begun.

The Todd Construction crew started work on the main entrance into the site July 26.

The first phase of construction includes utility work and rebuilding the main entrance.The project will continue through the rest of the summer, followed by construction of the new auditorium this fall.

Due to the nature of the work, the main entrance of the building will be closed to the public throughout the summer. Access to the building will be through the Boeckman Creek Primary School driveway and parking lot, as well as the high school's rear courtyard entrance. Signage has been posted to help guide traffic.

"The district recognizes the inconvenience this temporary traffic revision will have on the public who will be accessing the site for various activities and is working with the construction team to minimize impact during and keep the duration of this closure as short as possible," said Amy Berger, WL-WV capital bond coordinator, in a message to the community.

The project is expected to wrap up in 2023. WL-WV Director of Communications Andrew Kilstrom said the auditorium is expected to open January 2023 and the renovated spaces will follow that fall. The project will happen in phases to minimize the disruption to learning during the school year.

Primary school bond projects taking place this summer include air conditioning installations at Cedaroak Park, Bolton, Willamette and Stafford Primary.

At the middle school level, crews are working on classroom renovation and a restroom and concessions building addition at Inza R. Wood Middle School, and a new secure entry and various other building renovations at Athey Creek Middle School.