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Mayor: No Structures Will Be Built Over Storm Drain on Former Junior High Site; Feasibility Work Underway
Summary
Mayor Scott James said the former St. Albans Junior High site has existing storm drainage that prevents building structures directly over it; feasibility work by consultants has been done and additional studies may follow.
Mayor Scott James said the former St. Albans Junior High property has an existing storm drain infrastructure that rules out building permanent structures directly over the drain and that feasibility studies have been conducted for potential uses.
James said, “Overall, it's in good shape, but it's old. Uh-huh. The storm drain. So, you know, we will not build any structures over that storm drain.” He also said consultants (Thresher and Chapman Technical) have done work evaluating single-dwelling homes, town homes and green space options.
Why it matters: the site is a sizable parcel in the city and any redevelopment options — housing, retail or park space — hinge on existing underground infrastructure and council decisions about allowed uses, density and rental restrictions.
The mayor said council members are divided on the preferred direction; he favors new housing such as townhomes and noted restrictions would prohibit rentals on the site if council adopts that approach. He also flagged safety and location concerns for placing play areas near busy roads.
Ending: James said the council will eventually vote and that residents will be kept informed as feasibility work continues; no formal redevelopment plan or timeline was put forward during the podcast.
