(Spring Lake, MI) May 30, 2024 – Staff at Spring Lake Public Schools broke ground on construction and renovations for the district on Tuesday, May 30th, signaling the beginning work for the district that will last from Spring 2024 through Fall of 2027. A brand-new athletic facility and new secure entry for the high school (both slated to open in the Fall of 2025) are major focuses of the upcoming 3.5-year project, but you can also expect to see various other projects happening across the district for our students, faculty, and community.
BACKGROUND
Funds for the projects were generated by a $49.8 million bond, which voters passed in May of 2023. The bond and its associated projects were designed with focuses on student safety and well-being, operational efficiency and infrastructure upgrades, future-ready learning environments, and student arts and athletics facilities.
“While the building is well maintained...there are some things that, over the past 23 years, have outlived their life expectancy,” said Liz Boeve, Director of Operations for SLPS. “It’s time for the high school to receive those updates.” Districtwide, infrastructure updates will occur mainly in the classrooms. However, the roof, bathrooms, auditorium, HVAC, and various lighting projects will be upgraded with the goal of reducing maintenance costs and enhancing efficiency for the district.
PROJECT SCOPE
High School Additions
Spring Lake High School will receive a new secure vestibule entry and administration space. Updating these building systems helps to ensure a safe and secure building for our students and staff. New door hardware and window film will be installed for further classroom security. Fire alarm and security camera system upgrades are included in our safety upgrades as well. Four new classrooms and a common space will be added. The visual arts, auditorium, and media center will be remodeled and upgraded to enhance collaborative and hands-on learning.
New Fieldhouse
The new addition for the district will be the Laker Athletic Center. This 72,000 SF space is intended to be used as a new athletic training space allowing for year-round indoor practice for our band and athletic teams of all ages, as well as high school physical education classes. The new fieldhouse will include a weight room, indoor turf field, multi-purpose space, and storage. A varsity baseball field and new tennis courts are also included in the plans.
Additional Projects
- Classroom interior upgrades
- Remodel of media center
- Visual arts lab remodel
- Addition of space for collaborative hands-on learning
- Upgrading outdated building infrastructure to improve operational expenses and efficiency
- New LED lighting
- Outdoor learning spaces
- Instructional technology for k-12 students and staff
- New busses
The $49.8 million bond program is being managed by Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Co., and designed by TMP Architecture.
While the building is well maintained...there are some things that, over the past 23 years, have outlived their life expectancy. It’s time for the high school to receive those updates.
