The Planning Commission unanimously approved the design of Patrick Henry Project on Tuesday saying that they believed the design of the new school and the new recreation center was a good use of the land.
Stephen Koenig, who represented the Planning Commission on the Patrick Henry Project Advisory Group said that he was proud to be part of the design work and, although the process had not always been perfectly smooth, it had been open to public feedback and engagement.
Commissioner Maria Wasowski said it was important to remember that an advisory committee’s role is to advise and create a forum for discussion and that the ultimate decision rests with the Alexandria City School Board.
The School Board voted to approve the Patrick Henry Project schematic design in September on the grounds that it was the best option in regards to safety, instruction and cost.
Patrick Henry Principal Ingrid Bynum told the Planning Commission that in her view safety and instruction were paramount for assessing any new building.
“My families at Patrick Henry have discussed the design at length. They believe that this design is the safest design for their children. I believe that the way this new school is set out is the best design possible for instruction,” said Bynum.
Bynum said she believed that the approved design enables quick action to be taken in the case of an emergency, does not require students to cross bus or car lanes when walking to school, while also allowing the separation of middle school and elementary school classes in the new pre-K-8 school by utilizing three floors.
The design will now go before the City Council for a decision on Saturday, December 17.
Watch the video of the Planning Commission hearing. The Patrick Henry Project is #8 on the docket for December 6, 2016.