$44M Project Begins Next Week At Lincoln Junior High School

SKOKIE, IL — After being in the planning stages for years, construction on a new Lincoln Junior High School building will begin next week, according to a news release from Skokie-Morton Grove School District 69. The District 69 school board voted Tuesday to accept the lowest responsible bids for construction out of 42 bids received. Final construction costs came in at roughly $44.6 million, which will be funded by $13 million in reserve funds and $32 million in previously issue construction bonds, the release said.

The construction area will be fenced off from the general public. The existing building will remain intact for the time being except for the lower gymnasium, which will be demolished to provide room for the new facility.

"As construction begins, we are thrilled to be able to create an innovative and transformative middle school for students and families, as well as a valuable community asset for all of District 69," District 69 Superintendent Margaret Clauson said in a news release. "We know that this new school building will inspire learning for all students, serve as a hub for activities and gatherings, and provide a continuing sense of pride and joy for Skokie and Morton Grove."

The new three-story building will feature specialized areas for drama programs, general music and choir, instrumental music, physical education, STEM and robotics classes and art programs. Two competition-sized gymnasiums also will be added.

But the new facility will not just be for students. The building and grounds are designed for public use after school hours and could play host to park district activities and community events.

Demolition of the current building is slated for the summer of 2021 and completion of the new school is scheduled for that fall.