MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — After decades of planning and discussion, Martinsville High School (MHS) is taking the next steps toward building a new gymnasium.

The project aims to provide students and the community with a modern, multi-purpose facility.

The concept of a new gym dates back to a 1993 facilities study that identified three major projects for Martinsville City Public Schools (MCPS).

While the other projects were completed, the gym remained unrealized due to funding and logistical hurdles, according to MCPS.

The project was revisited between 2010 and 2012 with new designs, but it was ultimately placed on hold once again.

Now, school officials are moving forward with updated plans.

The new gym is expected to be built on part of the upper parking lot and into the hillside near the current recreational gym on the MHS campus.

According to preliminary designs, the facility will feature:

• Seating for 2,500 spectators, allowing the school to host regional and state competitions
• A 200-yard indoor track with plexiglass railings for full-court visibility
• Dedicated athletic spaces, including a weight room, wrestling room, locker rooms, and showers
• A modern lobby with a ticket booth, concessions, and office space
• Adaptable court space with partitions for multiple events and activities

MCPS said that while the initial estimate from 2011 placed the cost between $10-12 million, updates are needed to reflect current building codes and construction costs.

In the coming weeks, school officials will hire a firm to refine the plans and provide a new cost estimate.

Beyond athletics, the facility is expected to serve as a community hub, hosting robotics competitions, large-scale events, and even an indoor walking track that will be open to the public.

“We’re more than just a school, we’re a community,” said Superintendent Dr. Zebedee Talley Jr.

Further updates on funding and construction timelines are expected in the coming months.

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