In 2019, USD 490 began implementation of a Long-Range Facilities Plan. Phase II of the plan included the extensive renovation and repurposing of the former 1930s high school and middle school building into a community Performing Arts Center and classroom space for Project Extend. It was deemed necessary for the original classroom wing of this historic building to be carefully demolished to allow for District operations to continue and to add much needed parking. A contractor was carefully vetted to perform the detailed facade and masonry work on the east face, saving many elements for reinstallation.
While preserving the auditorium, the prize jewel of the building, was important, providing 21st– century learning space for high schoolers attending Project Extend was a high priority. Adding a highly flexible and fresh learning environment aligned well with program values and project goals:
My firm belief is that Gravity::Works Principals possess not only the architectural and planning skills that one would expect from a firm, but also the political savvy and longstanding relationships to help a district navigate a major construction process.”
, Superintendent of Leavenworth Public Schools (formerly with USD 413 and USD 490)
