The debate continues over what comes next for Hudson’s historic high school building. The structure which was built in 1927 was added onto in the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s and had been used more recently as the district’s middle school. The school building is expected to be decommissioned at the end of the current school year upon the completion of other school renovation projects.
A private developer has submitted a proposal in which it would preserve parts of the historic high school and incorporate it into condos. School Superintendent Phil Herman says they’re considering all of the options.
“Community members have voiced strong opinions and a whole variety of opinions about what should happen with this building so we want to make sure that we are understanding those opinions and that we are being respectful of those opinions, modifying plans where possible and trying to seek a good long term solution.”
The Hudson Heritage Association is suggesting the entire building be transformed into a cultural arts center. Association President Christopher Bach says the organization would like the entire building to stay intact.
James Field, a member of Hudson's Board of Education, points out that while the association did submit a concept, it neither presented any financial information nor a commitment for funding. While the district says there has been community support for saving the 1927 building, the district did not have the $10 million that was estimated would be needed to preserve it. A committee studying options for the past three years had previously set a deadline of this summer for transferring the building to a new owner.
At this point, the district plans to demolish the newer sections of the building later this year.
