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Plans in Place to Breathe New Life into Empty Bristol, Va. School Properties

BRISTOL, Va. – Big changes are on the horizon for Bristol, Virginia, as the city sets plans in motion to transform two long-quiet school properties into bustling community hubs. Three elementary schools in Bristol – Stonewall Jackson, Washington-Lee, and Highland View – closed their doors at the end of the 2023-24 school year. This move was part of a strategic effort by Bristol Virginia Public Schools to streamline resources for the newly opened intermediate school.

In a bid to ensure these closed school buildings don’t fall into disrepair or become eyesores, the city council decided to list the properties for sale. Councilman Neal Osborne emphasized the importance of quick action: “We didn’t want them to sit vacant for a long time so we went ahead and listed them for sale,” he noted.

A call for bids attracted interest, and ultimately two developers stepped up to the plate with exciting proposals for two of the properties. Unfortunately, Highland View didn’t receive any offers, but both Stonewall Jackson and Washington-Lee schools did.

The two developers, identified as Old School One LLC and Old School Two LLC, were specifically created to purchase these school buildings. So, what’s in store for these spaces? Osborne shared some details:

• **Stonewall Jackson:** This building is set to become a boutique hotel. Additionally, there are plans to develop houses for rent on the land behind the school. This blend of commercial and residential usage aims to cater to both visitors and locals alike.
• **Washington-Lee:** Plans for this site are even more diverse. The property will be transformed into a mixed-use space featuring residential options and some small retail outlets, creating a micro-community environment.

With these plans in place, initial work is ready to begin. “We’re in contract negotiations,” Osborne said. Once contracts are signed, the developers will move forward with submitting site plans and engaging in the necessary pre-construction activities. It’s a meticulous process, but one that promises a vibrant future for these properties.

For the city of Bristol, these redevelopment projects symbolize progress and growth. “I think it’s a sign that Bristol’s on the move,” Osborne remarked. “Bristol’s growing. We’re heading in the right direction.”

While the future looks bright for the Stonewall Jackson and Washington-Lee sites, the Highland View property still awaits a suitor. Osborne indicated that the city remains open to offers and remains hopeful that a suitable developer will come forward.

The community’s reaction to these developments has been largely positive. Residents are excited about the prospects of new amenities and the revitalization of these once-functional spaces. The new boutique hotel at Stonewall Jackson is expected to attract tourists, while the mixed-use setup at Washington-Lee could provide a welcome boost to local commerce and housing.

Moreover, these projects could set a precedent for how other communities handle the issue of vacant school properties. By repurposing rather than demolishing, Bristol preserves a piece of its history while adapting to modern needs. Such innovative thinking could inspire other towns and cities facing similar challenges.

In summary, Bristol, Virginia, is taking significant strides to breathe new life into its community. The redevelopment of the Stonewall Jackson and Washington-Lee school properties not only addresses the issue of vacant buildings but also introduces new opportunities for housing, tourism, and commerce. These projects are a positive indication of Bristol’s growth and its commitment to maintaining a vibrant and thriving community.

As the city looks forward to the completion of these projects, residents and stakeholders alike are optimistic about the transformations ahead. With continued support and investment, Bristol stands poised to offer new and exciting experiences for both its citizens and visitors.

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