SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Public Schools is moving forward with plans to relocate its administrative building after nearly 45 years at its current location on Bernard Street. The district’s board approved the purchase of a new building during a meeting on Wednesday night.
The new administrative building, located at 501 North Riverpoint Boulevard, is a $12.2 million investment for the district’s future. Board President Nikki Lockwood expressed enthusiasm about the move, stating, “This is the first step of many that will allow us some cost savings and consolidation of buildings and you know, buildings cost a lot.”
Superintendent Adam Swinyard highlighted the financial benefits of the new building, saying it will generate a net revenue gain of around $1 to $2 million each year. “Because we will be recapturing all of the cost of the facility and then some,” he said.
The new location will not only serve as the administrative building but also house the Community School, which is currently located on Monroe Street. Swinyard added, “The concept of co-locating a district office with a school is a great example of what we think is some innovative flexible thinking.”
Board members voiced their support and excitement for the new building, with comments like “Seems like a win win win,” “Seems like a good move,” and “And that’s very exciting.”
The district has 30 days to finalize the purchase of the Riverpoint building, with plans to complete the move in the next four to six years.
