Shortlist Released On Where To Build Cruces High School
LAS CRUCES – Officials with Las Cruces Public Schoolsand community membershavedecided onfour locations as possible sites for a new high school.
A review committee’s list evaluates various areas throughout the city for a campus that district officials said was sorely needed.
The location most highly regarded is on E. Lohman near Sonoma Ranch.The remaining sites are located on East Dunn, the West Mesa and Dripping Springs.
The committee gave the Lohman location strong marks due to an extensive growth on the East Side.Members said thelocation will have low traffic and is in a good location compared to other schools in the district.
However, Superintendent Stan Roundssaid he has no clear favorite yet.”We’ll try to make a decision that allows us to provide the best choice, not just for today, but building a 50-, 60- or 75-year facility,” he says.
The school district will spend around $85 million to build the school by 2011.Officials think at least 100 acres of land are needed.
The school board hopes to pick one of the four sites by the end of December.
Rounds said once a decision is made the remaining locations will still be in consideration for future projects.
“We will want to actually secure all four sites for schools,” he said. “Really, the only issue is which location will be for the next high school.These sites are all valid.They fit into our larger plan and where housing is likely to be.”
