Construction at Bellaire High School is now more than 50 percent complete, with the new school expected to be ready for students this time next year.
Crews have installed the roof structure for the new building, which includes wings for academics, fine arts, and physical education. The academic wing is now closed in and air-conditioned, with construction crews currently working on the finishing touches, including tiling and flooring.
Crews also are working on overhead construction in the auditorium high ceilings, digging out the pool and diving well, and construction of the interior walls in the athletics area. Air conditioning is expected to be flowing through the entire building by the end of July.
“The design and construction teams have continued to work throughout the pandemic, following all safety protocols to protect workers,” Heery International Senior Program Manager Gary Whittle said. “While there have been manpower shortages and some delays in material deliveries, the anticipated occupancy date is still on target.”
The new building is expected to open in time for the 2021-2022 school year. Once it opens, the existing school building will be demolished to make way for construction of the parking garage and administration wing.
The new three-story academic wing will feature multiple flexible learning areas for student collaboration, a library with makerspace, and an exterior courtyard. The fine arts wing will contain a 900-seat auditorium and black box theater, while the physical education wing features two gyms.
The design also includes a large dining commons area and incorporates the school’s existing science wing. The connection between the new building and the existing science building is underway.
The completion of Bellaire High School will close out the 2012 Bond Program, which included the renovation or rebuilding of 40 schools, including 29 high schools, across the district.
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