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Newton approves phased $8.65 million amendment to Central Recreation Facility redevelopment
Summary
Council approved an amendment requesting an additional $8,650,100 from NC Commerce to phase renovations of the former Central High School into a community facility; residents asked about insurance, funding sources and community involvement.
The Newton City Council on Dec. 3 unanimously approved an amendment to the Community Development Block Grant-funded Central Recreation Facility redevelopment that requests $8,650,100 in additional funding and phases the project into three stages.
Community Development Director Ben Willis told the council the original project budget and scope have been outpaced by rising costs and recent storm damage from Hurricane Helene. The amended request seeks $800,000 to complete Phase 1 (gym repairs, bathroom renovations, a new vestibule, conversion of boiler/storage into a Hall of Fame, site work and accessibility improvements), $4,200,100 for Phase 2 (gut renovation of the original classroom building, asbestos and lead abatement, program spaces, accessibility and parking corrections), and $3,650,000 for Phase 3 (renovation of the second classroom building), for a total additional request of $8,650,100 to add to the existing $1,575,000 budget.
Residents expressed concerns about alternatives if state funds are not provided and whether insurance would cover storm-related damage. Marcus Miller asked, “If we don’t get the money, how will we move forward?” Willis said that decision-making about unfunded phases would be up to the city and noted that storm damage could open additional funding opportunities. Several residents, including Pastor Annie Sifford and Kathy Stewart, urged clearer communication and broader community involvement in state site visits and project planning.
Supporters at the hearing said rehabilitating Central High School would benefit youth programs and the broader community. Polly Pearson praised staff and the mayor for their outreach and urged moving the project forward. After closing the public hearing, council members voted unanimously to approve the amendment. The city indicated the state may choose to fund one, two or all three phases depending on available funds.
