District reports progress on renovations, asks trustees to consider $8.6M addition to athletics project

Neil James, speaking for the Facilities Committee, presented a video update on capital projects across the district and summarized several underway projects: stadium renovations at Aynor and Conway, new batting cages and restroom foundations, modular classrooms at Myrtle Beach, and completed and ongoing work at Carolina Forest High.

"At Myrtle Beach, [modular] units are in place and getting their final inspections," Neil James said, and he reported that classes will return to renovated spaces at Carolina Forest as work proceeds. He also described two district properties recommended for disposal under existing protocol: the Conway Educational Center (one charter expressed interest) and the former Kingston Elementary (currently used for storage until other renovations finish).

On athletic facility spending, James told trustees that an earlier $25 million plan to enhance baseball and softball facilities was divided into five phases but now requires an additional $8.6 million because of cost escalation and Title IX-related improvements to ensure equitable facilities for male and female athletes. He said funds would be found within the capital budget by reassigning savings from other projects and that the increase would be presented for board discussion and a business vote at the second November meeting.

The facilities report also included a recommendation to rename the Rivertown complex gymnasium in honor of a former Whittemore Park High School athlete, identified in the presentation as Willie Chocolate; the naming and the capital budget adjustment are scheduled for the November board meetings for discussion and a subsequent vote.