In 2003, the district adopted a Long Range Master Facilities Plan that envisioned a 10-year program that would result in the rebuilding or renovation of all our schools. Since that time, our community has passed two bond issues and rebuilt or renovated four elementary schools, two middle schools and half of the high school. The third and final phase of the plan would renovate or rebuild Lincoln and Roosevelt elementaries and rebuild the second half of the high school. Grant Elementary is currently scheduled to be closed as part of Phase III.
FAQs
What is the current timeline for Phase III?
We cannot move forward with the final phase until the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) declares us eligible for state funding that will help pay for these last construction projects.
When do you expect the district to be declared eligible?
The state has told us that there is a slim chance we will be eligible in 2013 but a more likely scenario is 2014.
What happens once we are declared eligible?
An approximately year-long planning process begins between the district and OSFC to determine specifics such as design, budget, etc.
When is the earliest you believe construction could begin?
We first have to pass a bond issue and a small permanent improvement levy dedicated to maintenance of the buildings before construction can begin. Once we accomplish that, then work can begin.
How long will the construction process take?
Approximately two years.
When will Grant close?
The intention is to follow the Phase III Steering Committee’s recommendation of keeping all seven elementary schools open until construction is complete. However, if the district’s finances worsen significantly, a school may have to be closed sooner. That does not necessarily mean it will be Grant as that building may be needed for transition space during construction.
Considering the State of Ohio’s budget problems, how do we know the State will have the money to pay for Phase III?
The money that comes from OSFC is separate from the State’s general fund. The money for projects such as Phase III comes from bonds issued by the State that can only be used for school construction and not to plug the State’s budget holes.
Phase III Hotline: 216-227-5315
Call with any issues, concerns or questions
PHASE II COMPLETE!
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The dedication of West Wing of Lakewood High School in August 2009 completed Phase II of the district's Facilities Master Plan, which also included renovanting Emerson and Horace Mann middle schools into elementary schools. All were done on time and on budget!