West Valley School District has selected CTA Architects Engineers for its construction project.

The firm will provide architectural and engineering services in the design of a $6.8 million school project. 

New construction includes roughly 30,000 square feet in the form of 15 new classrooms, a new auxiliary gym, entranceway upgrades and additions to the library and offices. 

If money is available, renovations may be slated for a kitchen and other improvements to address any building deficiencies.

Two other firms — Red Horse Architecture of Whitefish and Architects West of Coeur d’Alene — also submitted proposals.

CTA Architects and Engineers previously contracted with the district to do master planning and draw up school layout concepts that were presented to the community in April. The firm has offices in Kalispell and throughout Montana. 

Ketchum said CTA’s proposal stood out for its thoroughness.

“They put in a personal touch and went the extra mile overall. There was a feeling of inclusion that even kids would have a say in the project,” West Valley Superintendent Cal Ketchum said.

Ketchum said the next step is meeting with CTA this week to negotiate a contract.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.