Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a series of questions that have come in on the project. We will continue to add more to this list as the project progresses.

1. What are the major components of this project?

The Building ALegacy Project includes the construction of a new 158,000 SF 5-8 middle school, consolidating the existing Learwood Middle School and Troy Intermediate School into one on the Learwood site. Additionally, it includes renovations and mechanical upgrades to Eastview, Westview, and Redwood Elementary Schools, which are aimed at improving the indoor environmental comfort of staff and students.  Learwood will remain in service until the new building is completed, and then it and Troy Intermediate will be demolished. 

2. How long will the project take to be completed? 

This project is a significant undertaking. The design team is anticipating that the new middle school will be opened for the 2028-2029 school year. Renovations and improvements will be made to the elementary schools in the summer of 2027. 

3. Why aren't we just renovating the intermediate and middle school?

Based on a 2020 detailed inspection authorized by the Ohio Facilities Construction Committee (OFCC), the cost to renovate the existing intermediate and middle schools is almost 65-70% of the cost of new construction.  Additionally, the renovations would simply be a temporary fix for 10-15 years, and it makes more fiscal sense to build a new building to replace those aging schools. Also, by consolidating facilities, it allows the district to use resources more effectively, and district staff can pool their resources to better provide opportunities for all students in grades 5-8. 

4. How will the new school's design benefit students?

The new middle school is designed to meet modern educational needs with a focus on collaborative, technology-rich spaces. It will provide a learning environment that supports a higher quality of education. The design is intended to create spaces that are safe and conducive to learning.

5. Will there be new programs available for students in the new facility?

The district is ensuring this school will be a state-of-the-art facility and best serve students' educational needs moving forward. The design will allow for flexible spaces that could host a variety of academic programs and other elective classes.  As the project progresses, the district will continue to report on project milestones and provide glimpses into the new building as they are available. 

6. Who will be involved in the design of the new school?

Avon Lake City Schools is committed to engaging a variety of stakeholders during the design of the new school.  Plans include engaging with school staff, community partners, and city services for feedback on the new building. At various points in the design phase, the community will have a chance to provide input through various engagement opportunities and events. ThenDesign Architecture, a leader in K-12 design, and the school district are designing this new middle school using educational best practices, ensuring durable materials, flexible collaborative areas, and academically engaging and comfortable spaces.   

7. What safety measures will be considered in the new facilities?

Modern facility design naturally limits public access to buildings (secure “airlock” design near offices, limited entry doors, etc.) in a way that the current entrances do not because they were built in a different era.  Classroom-level security enhancements come with new buildings, along with enhanced camera systems, access controls, and door hardware. 

8. What community access features will the new building have?

The school district is keeping both community and student experience in mind. As the design process progresses, the district will continue to communicate components of the new school to the broader community.  

9. What is the total cost of the project, and how is it being funded?

The project is funded by Issue 16, a $88.1 million bond issue that was approved by voters in May 2025. 

10. How can community members stay informed about the construction progress?

The school district has committed to ongoing engagement and communication. We will provide regular updates on the project timeline, construction milestones, and other relevant information through the district website, newsletters, and in-person community forums and board meetings.