Cumberland County accepts three closed school campuses

Cumberland County commissioners have unanimously approved the acquisition of three former school properties for a total of $3. The properties include Lillian Black Elementary, Manchester Elementary, and the former Alger B. Wilkins High School campus.

The decision follows school district consolidation efforts. Lillian Black Elementary has been vacant since 2022, while Manchester Elementary was closed in May. Students from Alger B. Wilkins are scheduled to move to the Douglas Byrd Middle North building for the 2026-27 school year.

By accepting the deeds, the county will assume ownership and responsibility for the sites, including utility transfers. A planning team will be formed to evaluate the properties and recommend future uses for the land and buildings.