SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Public Schools (SPS) is moving forward with plans to enhance efficiency and accessibility with the construction of a new Adams Elementary School.
The existing building has outlived its design, with portable structures dating back to the 1970s. Demolition of the old Adams Elementary is set to begin after more than a decade of planning and voter involvement.
SPS Superintendent Adam Swinyard emphasized the need for change.
“It’s been a long time waiting. Adams was over 100 years old. The building was well past its useful life,” Swinyard said.
The decision to demolish the current building and prepare the groundwork for a new foundation was approved at Wednesday night’s board meeting. The initial steps are estimated to cost more than $2 million.
Swinyard assured the community about the project’s budget.
“We’re stretching every dollar as far as we can. We’re not building luxury resorts. We’re building schools,” Swinyard said.
Built in 1909, the old facilities have become inefficient, with significant issues in HVAC systems and accessibility.
“Lots of challenges with HVAC. Lots of challenges around accessibility,” Swinyard noted.
The renovation will include new pipes and fixtures, along with ADA access improvements such as elevators and ramps for students in need.
“All the up-to-date, modernized pieces that we would expect our kids would be able to have access to,” Swinyard said.
Currently, Adams Elementary students are attending classes at the former Jefferson Elementary School on East 37th Avenue.
“We’re in the process of doing the salvage and abatement that is necessary. Demolition will probably start sometime in February with the goal of new construction starting in March,” Swinyard stated.
SPS expects the new building to be completed in just under two years, with students attending the new Adams Elementary by fall 2027.
