Historic school redevelopments announced in Atlanta and Renton

Two separate redevelopment projects in the United States are focusing on the preservation of historic school architecture while modernizing facilities.

In Atlanta, developer Omar Ali has announced a $25 million plan to transform the historic 1932 Lakewood Heights Elementary School into a mixed-use hub. Through a partnership between Atlanta Public Schools and Atlanta Urban Development, the project will convert the building into family-oriented apartments and 12,000 square feet of retail space. The development will prioritize local dining and health-oriented businesses. Before construction begins, the site will undergo environmental remediation to address asbestos, lead, and mold.

In Renton, Washington, Skanska has signed a $110 million contract with the Renton School District to construct a new high school campus. The project, expected to be completed by autumn 2029, will expand the campus to 33.3 acres and provide capacity for 1,600 students. The design includes a 350,000-square-foot facility featuring classrooms, technical education spaces, and athletic fields. The redevelopment will preserve the original 1930s school facade and the IKEA Performing Arts Center while being constructed in phases to allow the current school to remain operational.