A group of concerned citizens have formed a committee and partnered with a structural engineer in an attempt save the Fine Arts Building on the campus of Houston Schools.
The Community Coordinating Committee (CCC) said via a press release its goal is “gathering reliable, fact-based information about the preservation and restoration” of the building that was erected in 1921 as Houston’s new high school. The group said it wishes to return the building to a safe and functioning facility to “both enhance student opportunities and preserve district resources.”
The Houston school board is considering demolition of the structure that was vacated in 2008 and no longer used by the district. Four demolition bids were received by a May 31 deadline and will be reviewed at Tuesday’s monthly meeting.
CCC said it has partnered with Kevin Skibiski, a structural engineer and associate vice president of Horner & Shifrin, Inc., of Springfield. Skibiski was on Houston’s campus Saturday, according to CCC president John Impey, and observed the exterior of the Fine Arts Building.
Impey said Skibiski reported the building’s structural condition – detailed as having framing issues inadequate for loading conditions by Pinnacle Design Consultants of Springfield in 2008 – has not changed. Skibiski has reviewed a video of the interior recorded by the Houston Herald and plans to request access for himself from the district, CCC member Karen Cavanaugh said.
“He sees no changes in the foundation,” CCC said in the news release, “concluding the foundation presents no structural issues.”
Instead of demolition, the committee suggests restoring the building and making it a multi-purpose facility that could provide an auditorium/gymnasium, office and storage space, bathrooms and possible rental income. The group also suggests utilizations such as the Exceptional Child Cooperative, social services outreach, college or university classes and technical classes.
“We suggest that with the money saved from new construction and the additional space the building would provide,” CCC said in its news release, “the district will be able to once again expand program offerings and put technical devices into the hands of all our students and teachers from elementary through graduation.”
CCC said it will work with the district to secure restoration from private funding, grant opportunities and current district funds. The group has presented plans to the school board and Superintendent Scott Dill.
CCC said it is “delighted to have received such encouraging news to share with the school and community.” Those interested in joining the group should call 417-967-2358.