The long-awaited L.J. Bell Elementary School construction project continues moving forward in Richmond County, although officials say the project is currently running about a month behind schedule.
During the June 9 meeting of the Richmond County Board of Education, representatives from Bordeaux Construction Company provided an update on the progress of the new school planned for Hamlet. The project is one of the largest educational investments currently underway in the region and is being funded in part by a $42 million grant awarded to the district last year.
According to officials, demolition of the existing L.J. Bell Elementary School building is expected to begin this fall. Construction on the new facility is scheduled to start in the spring of 2027, with a target completion date of August 2028.
Changes Planned for the New School
The board previously approved modifications to the project that will replace the current auditorium with four additional classrooms. School leaders said the extra classroom space may be needed due to potential future changes involving West Rockingham Elementary School.
Plans also call for an expanded gymnasium that can serve both athletic and performing arts needs. The facility will include a stage and flexible seating arrangements that can be configured for sporting events, school performances, and community gatherings.
One notable feature of the new school will be individual heating and air conditioning units in each classroom. District officials say that design will help prevent widespread disruptions if HVAC issues occur, allowing classes to continue in unaffected areas of the building.
Additional Facility Improvements Across the District
Board members also received updates on several other construction and renovation projects throughout Richmond County Schools.
Renovations are underway at Kate Finley Auditorium at Rockingham Middle School, where crews have removed seating and begun painting. New carpeting and replacement seats are expected to be installed in the coming weeks.
Officials also reported that a roofing project at Richmond Senior High School has been completed.
As planning and construction continue, district leaders say the new L.J. Bell Elementary School will provide modern learning spaces designed to serve students for decades to come while supporting the future growth of Richmond County.
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