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A new source of buildings?

Frequent poster Barbara Ann sent me this story from the American School & University Website about a school in Houston that is housed in a renovated factory building.

That brings to mind some good questions about Guilford County. The school district obviously needs space and many of the current bond projects are coming in way over budget. Could some abandoned buildings around the county be a cost-effective answer? If so, what buildings do you think would make good schools?

The school district already has found one creative way to create more space by starting middle college high schools. These small high schools are located in existing buildings on college campuses, meaning the taxpayers don't have to foot the bill for a new building.

Comments (7)

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jwg said:

A similar article was quoted at http://littleurbanity.blogspot.com/ at some time in the past.

Discounter said:

Hey BA and Bruce,

In Florida they are purchasing the old K-Mart stores out of bankruptcy and saving boatloads in Hillsborough and Dade counties. We get a flashing blue light education ------ We might as save money in the process!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seriously, they might be a sensible alternative to the tornado traps our kids currently in!

Barbara Ann said:

I think using the abondoned buildings would be a great idea. The site work, water and utilities would already be in place. Also with an empty retail space, you would have parking. A contractor could build-to-suit. It wouldn't take as long for construction as the building schedule would not be subject to the elements.

The main hurdle would be finding empty buildings that would be in the vicinity of where we need schools. Sometimes, the empty buildings might be in more of an urban area and our growth is in the suburbs and rural areas of the county.

It should definitely be investigated as abandoned buildings become available.

Flyonthewall said:

Fly on the wall of our Terry's office.

Refurbish an old K-mart?
No way, rainwater flushed restrooms are far more sexy...
Who cares if we can't build what we promised.
Jamestown doesnt need a new middle. Colfax doesnt need a new HS.
We'll get another bond out in a couple of years and blame rising construction costs..

tatersnmaters said:

International Home Furnishings Market. Since they worry about where HP Central and Andrews will play football you would probably gut part of it and PRESTO - THE DOTTIE DOME

HP will definitely have the space very soon.

12-Star Gen. Slak said:

My Sources tell me that mr.grier was in High Point for Lunch today.

Seems as though he was over at the Emoneywood Country Club,,, Hobnobbing with the big money boys....I wonder what he's looking for???

After Thanksgiving, maybe mr. grier will stop by and have lunch with some of the Boys at Southwest,,,,if he needs directions, he can get his banking buddy, Joe Oops to show him the way.

Just maybe, the North High Point Xmas display will be up by then, and terri and joe could stop there for a little Fruit Cake and "PUNCH"!!!!!!!!!!!!

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