Architect: MHS work could cost $40.7 million

by Larry Chowning –

To renovate Middlesex High School (MHS) in Saluda could cost between $20.5 and $40.7 million. That’s what Middlesex County School Board members heard Monday at their regular monthly meeting. During the Aug. 8 meeting, which was in the St. Clare Walker (SCW) Middle School auditorium, representatives from Moseley Architects in Richmond presented cost estimates on three proposed renovation plans for MHS.

The first option would cost $20.5 million; second option, $30.9 million; and a third option, $40.7 million. Stephen Halsey, vice president of Moseley Architects, said the first option would add 16,000 square feet to MHS. The second option would add 23,000 square feet and the third option, 50,000 square feet. The costs of the three options are figured on costs of $350 per square foot.

MHS was renovated and expanded in 1976 when the current gymnasium and life-skill classrooms were added and in 2002 when there was a major renovation and expansion of classrooms, library and cafeteria space. The original high school was built in 1949.

The funding for a new renovated MHS school facility has to be provided and approved by the Middlesex County Board of Supervisors…