Construction on New School Could Start in 2015

An entirely new K-8 school and recreation center could rise on the current site of Patrick Henry Elementary School in 2015, but there’s a lot to be done before then and Alexandria City Public Schools officials are still very early in the process.

A few dozen community members gathered in the Patrick Henry cafeteria Wednesday evening to learn about the process and give input on what they would like to see. (Another meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Oct. 2 at Patrick Henry.)

Whether to build an entirely new building or renovate and add onto the existing building is still up for debate. 

Either way, parents and school neighbors will have input on everything from the style of the building (new or renovated) to where it sits on the 650,000 square-foot property, parking, trees and internal elements like the auditorium, cafeteria and classroom amenities.

Parents and neighbors who are unable to attend the community meetings are welcome to give feedback and suggestions regarding Patrick Henry online here.

Schools officials would like to have architects working on a plan by July 1, 2014. It will take a year for the architects to finalize a design and construction could start July 1, 2015 if all goes according to plan.

For more information, visit the Patrick Henry project website.