Old Kmarts become new schools in Florida (not California - thanks, Mike!):
As architects finish prototype designs for all future school construction, the Lee County School District is experimenting with two vacant commercial structures that will be converted into school buildings.
The district has agreed to purchase empty Kmarts in San Carlos Park and Lehigh Acres for $6.1 million and $5.5 million, respectively. After site work, remodeling and furniture is added, the price tags are estimated at $16.5 million and $12.5 million. The final expense will be slightly less than traditional elementary schools, but the facilities could accommodate students by August 2005 because the building shell and roof are already in place.
District officials are not worried about public perception in converting empty commercial buildings, a practice adopted by many schools districts in Florida.
"Although they might not look alike on the curbside, the inside will be the same," Superintendent James Browder said. "A classroom is a classroom, no matter if we mold it into a large building."
Think of everything that's already in place - adequate parking, security systems, that great big ICEE machine and hot dog heater you see in every store...Why do any remodeling? Throw up some moveable dividing walls and the kids would be happy to attend the Kmart as is.
Posted by kswygert at December 29, 2003 08:45 PM