Birney Construction Update

Construction has begun on a $39 million modernization of Alice Birney Elementary, and families returning for the 2026–27 school year on Monday, Aug. 10, will find a reconfigured campus. The Whole Site Modernization project will replace the administration building, add four kindergarten classrooms, and rebuild the playgrounds and parking lot. Work is expected to continue through 2029.

With the administration building closing for demolition, school business has moved to interim modular offices on site. Families registering students, dropping off paperwork, or checking in as visitors will use those modules; signage around the campus will direct foot traffic during morning drop-off.

The main secured entrance has moved from Campus Avenue to the Meade Avenue gate, next to the library. All visitors will enter there, and the gate will also serve as the drop-off and pickup point.

The joint-use field has been temporarily reduced to make room for construction equipment, though much remains open for student play and community recreation. Fenced sections will be closed for the duration.

Changes to parking and traffic may lengthen drop-off and pickup, so the district asks parents to allow extra minutes, follow posted routes, and watch for pedestrians near work zones. More information is expected closer to the start of school at birney.sandiegounified.org.