NORFOLK, Va. — Weeks after developers with Heartland Construction shared their idea for a new Maury High School, Norfolk City Council members heard feedback from the community.
The current plan is to build a new high school on the property while preserving parts of the historic building.
"The main front part of the Maury High School that you see, that’s the historic portion. Some of the non-historic portions in the rear of the school, some of those will need to be removed to make room for some of the new athletic amenities," Robert Hudson, vice president of Heartland Construction, previously told 13News Now.
Tuesday night, city leaders said what will become the historic portion of the school is still unknown.
“Remaining to be decided are what to do with the old building, what’s the exact boundary lines of the project to be created," Norfolk City Manager Patrick Roberts said.
Some residents took issue with that part of the project still up in the air.
“The residents of Norfolk, at this time, have no idea what’s going on with regard to the historic Maury High School building," one speaker said.
But for the most part, residents seemed pleased with the design so far.
“I’m really excited about the new Maury High School. So, thank you so much," said one child who took to the podium.
Developers say their concept is to create new four-story high school with new athletic amenities and a pool complex.
“A pool at Maury High School would benefit the entire school system, and it’s essential for building a high-quality swim program," another speaker said.
Council members ultimately voted to enter a $6.1 million Interim Agreement with Heartland Construction to continue the design process. Councilman JP Paige was the only to vote no.
“As long as Booker T. and other schools in Norfolk are left off, leave me off too. I’m voting no," Councilman Paige said.
Developers say there will be more opportunity for community feedback further down the road. If all goes to plan, developers hope to have the new Maury complete by the fall of 2028.