New Warren Elementary School Keeps Making Progress Despite Weather Challenges
BOWLING GREEN, Ky, – A year after breaking ground, the construction of the new Warren Elementary School is shaping up nicely. Located on Brookwood Drive, anyone who’s been cruising down the William H. Natcher Parkway can’t miss the construction site. A wet spring and a sizzling summer couldn’t halt the progress on this long-awaited project.
The chief financial officer (CFO) and chief operating officer (COO), Chris McIntyre, reports that things are moving forward as planned. “We’re roughly about halfway there,” he confirmed. “Over the summer, we’ve seen lots of growth and finishes coming up. In the next month, we’re starting the outside facade. You’ll see loads of rock going up and Hardie Boards. Then the windows will follow.”
Once completed, the new building is set to be a modern educational space that will accommodate 850 students, thus easing the pressure on other busy educational institutions in the area. The old Warren Elementary gets a second life as a preschool center, paving the way for even more excited learners.
“We’re seeing an increase of 400 to 500 students per year. Fortunately, local property values are making our budget swell, so we can keep up with the pace and build more,” McIntyre said.
Adopting a building style similar to other district schools, McIntyre pointed out that the new elementary facility will have its exclusive features too. The official, however, decided to keep these as a surprise ’til the grand opening. Fingers crossed, folks!
“We’re aiming for a 1930s-40s exterior look with 25% rock and 75% Hardie Board. The inside will take you on a dragon-themed ride. We’re hoping it’ll add a fun element and kids will love it,” he added.
Besides boasting a hip new design, the new Warren Elementary will also be kind to mother nature. As a nod to its state, the building will incorporate hempwood, a Kentucky Proud product that not only cuts down on maintenance costs but also contributes negatively to CO2 emissions.
“Our goal isn’t only to engage the students for the 170 days that we have them per year. We also want to make it a space where our teachers can feel proud of and valued. We’re bringing in hempwood like the Greenwood High School, which is a product that lasts for 50 years, reduces our maintenance and custodial costs and is environmentally friendly. Plus, it’s a homegrown product, and that’s a double win!” McIntyre affirmed.
While we await the official announcement of the grand opening date, one thing is certain: the new Warren Elementary School is set to open its doors in August 2025. Mark your calendars!
