This Central option combines old, new

Naperville Unit District 203 is exploring a new concept for Naperville Central High School -- a hybrid between renovating the school and building a new one.

The district's new architects, Wight Company, presented a plan Monday that calls for Central to be comprised of two buildings connected by a concourse over Hillside Road.

"We just wanted to place in front of you the notion that building in two locations and connecting them is something that's ... possible to do in a safe and efficient way and may kind of split the difference between doing something that's entirely brand new and something that recycles and refurbishes an existing (building)," said Kevin Havens, senior vice president of Wight.

The district has been looking at three options for Central: a $6 million to $30 million minor renovation, $72 million major renovation and $130 million to $140 million new building. Building a new school would likely be part of a joint effort with the city, park district and other groups that use the Caroline Martin Mitchell estate to reconfigure the entire 212 acres she donated.

The latest hybrid option also would require reconfiguring this property. Central's current pool and auditorium, which were built in 1992, would stay intact on the north side of Hillside Road. Between the two, a new building would be constructed and serve as an arts and athletic wing for Central. It could also possibly be a facility that is shared with the park district as a community center. The existing stadium would remain.

On the south side of Hillside Road, a three-story academic building would be created that would also include school administration and common areas such as the cafeteria and library.

The walkway over Hillside connecting the two buildings wouldn't be a simple enclosed bridge but a large concourse with common space for students to congregate and with peers and school staff.

This plan assumes Hillside Road would stay open but the architects envision it as being modeled after a European concept in which vehicles and pedestrians both use the road. Strategically placed landscaping, road curves and street signs would make it a safe area for both drivers and students walking in the area.

The concept is still in the preliminary stages and does not yet have an estimated price tag.

Architects said one of the benefits of the two-building option is that it would allow construction to take place on the new building while students are still taking classes in the old building.

School board members applauded the new concept, especially because it saves the pool and auditorium. They asked the consultants to continue developing the idea into a more detailed option.

"We were looking for something outside the box. … I see that clearly coming through here," Ford vice president Susan Crotty said.

Superintendent Alan Leis will bring the new hybrid option to an upcoming meeting with the stake holders who use the Martin Mitchell property.