Legacy committee, community prefer Scheme A for Ligon Magnet; staff seeks schematic approval

Staff updated the board on progress by the Ligon Magnet Middle School Legacy Committee, which reviewed three schematic design concepts. Committee members and community representatives favored Scheme A, which emphasizes a ceremonial two‑story lobby off Haywood, a ‘history spine’ through the building, solar‑oriented classroom wings and improved bus/car circulation intended to remove queuing from adjacent neighborhood streets.

Architects said the committee eliminated Scheme C and asked for modifications to A and B; after revisions the committee overwhelmingly favored Scheme A. Staff said the project team will inventory historic elements this summer (including possible salvaging of auditorium seats and other materials) and incorporate community recommendations where feasible.

Staff presented a project budget summary: an all‑in total project budget of approximately $141 million (construction plus soft costs, fees, furniture and other components). Staff requested a board consensus to move Scheme A into schematic design, continue community work through the summer and return to the facility committee for schematic approval in August.

Board members who had attended the Legacy Committee meetings said they were pleased with the community engagement and the design direction, highlighted the committee’s emphasis on historical context, and urged careful preservation and accessible community uses of the building. The board gave staff direction to proceed with Scheme A schematic design and to return with schematic approval and additional cost details later in the summer.

Ending — Staff will advance Scheme A to schematic design, inventory salvageable historic elements over the summer, and bring the schematic design and updated budget to the facility committee for review in August.