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Middlesex High School has significant aging and infrastructure needs requiring substantial modernization. This page explains the need and the proposed 1% sales tax referendum, giving voters the opportunity to decide on an additional funding source in November 2026.
*Conceptual rendering
Why is there a need?
In 2021, the Middlesex County Board of Supervisors funded a Master Plan Study as the first step toward modernizing Middlesex High School. Moseley Architects completed the study in 2022.
Findings:
Numerous classrooms and support spaces do not meet current building codes or Virginia Department of Education space standards.
○ Several code deficiencies would be difficult or cost-prohibitive to correct without substantial renovation.
○ Asbestos is present in some flooring and behind certain visual display surfaces.
○ Many areas do not meet current ADA accessibility requirements.
○ Significant aging and deterioration were identified throughout the building, including:
■ Flooring, doors, hardware, windows, and masonry
■ Evidence of past or active roof and plumbing leaks
■ Corrosion in the domestic water system
○ Several major building systems and equipment have reached or exceeded their useful life, including:
■ HVAC units, Boiler pumps and piping
■ Kitchen exhaust system
■ Rooftop exhaust fans
■ Plumbing fixtures and water system
○ Additional concerns include outdated auditorium lighting, deteriorating exterior/canopy elements, inactive locker room showers, and non-ADA-compliant water coolers.
School Construction Committee
Community Stakeholder Meeting Spring 2022
For the past three years, a joint School Board and Board of Supervisors committee has evaluated:
1. How to address the need to modernize Middlesex High School.
2. How to fund the needed improvements.
The committee reviewed multiple modernization and construction options, including alternatives previously considered by the School Board.
Community Stakeholder Meeting Spring 2022
Middlesex High School was built in 1949, making the original structure 77 years old in 2026.
Conceptual rendering of modernization project.
Current MHS Auditorium
Conceptual rendering of new auditorium
Conceptual rendering of entrance into auditorium.
MHS current Media Center
Conceptual rendering of new Media Center
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