Valdez asks residents what they want in a $50 million high school renovation

The City of Valdez and Valdez City Schools want residents to weigh in on the planned renovation of Valdez High School, starting with what they're "most excited to see included."

That's the first question on a short online survey the city is promoting. Preliminary design concepts are set to be shown at a City Council work session Tuesday, Nov. 17, the city says, ahead of a renovation planned for 2028.

The school district's six-year capital plan puts the remodel at $50 million. It describes a building with "a leaky roof, faulty windows and doors, and uninsulated walls and mechanical spaces" that lead to "severe heating bills and massive heat loss in our harsh climate," along with poor ventilation in the shop and electrical systems that can't support modern technology.

The architects, Wolf Architecture and NAC Architecture, told the school board in August they planned to ask staff "what do you Love about VHS culture?" Then they'd turn to a bigger question: "What will the 2055 VHS Graduate Need to Succeed?" They're planning for a building meant to last 30 to 50 years.

Some smaller projects are nearly or already done. The district reported in August that its elevator replacement was almost finished and that the school's old rifle range is now a strength and conditioning room.

The City Council in July approved an $824,449 contract with Wolf Architecture to take the design to 35%. Education specifications and a 35% design package are due Dec. 7.