New Trier High School in Winnetka is hoping that the school board will vote to set a referendum for next February to allow voters to decide on going ahead with plans to refurbish portions of the campus.  The estimated cost of renovations is $185 million which translates into approximately $300 additional in residents' tax bills.  Earlier this year the district nixed more expensive plans, including a $400 million rebuild that voters said was too expensive.

If approved the project would commence in the summer of 2010 and be completed in two years.  The school has not had a proper renovation in decades and the swelling population has only magnified the issues.  The plan includes state-of-the-art renovations such as 40 new classrooms, new spaces for science, performing arts, visual arts, practical arts, kinetic fitness, kitchen, cafeteria, library, gym and fieldhouse. 

Some practical matters need to be addressed as well. The current Tech Arts building still has the original single pane windows and no upgrades have been done to the heating, air conditioning and ventilation since they were installed.  The plan would also beef up fire safety and campus security.

In essence, the east and west sides of the campus would be demolished, including the existing gym/field house, the Tech Arts building, music and performing arts building and cafeteria.  The architects, Perkins + Will presented their final plans to the board this week. 

Not everyone is thrilled with this proposal.  In difficult economic times voters want their governments to rein in spending and don't see the value added.  As a resident of New Trier township, I have had two children graduate from New Trier.  Although I don't benefit directly from the school anymore, as a realtor I understand the significance of this school and the draw it has on newcomers willing to spend more to live in the district.

A special school board meeting will be held Nov. 3 at the Winnetka Campus at 385 Winnetka Ave.  A presentation and tour is planned for interested residents.  More information can be found at New Trier's website:  Facilities Initiative.