Bowling Green, August 7, 2025
News Summary
Bowling Green’s Junior High School is preparing for significant renovations and expansions to accommodate a growing student population. The Bowling Green Independent School District has approved plans anticipating that enrollment will surpass 1,000 students by the upcoming school year. With a budget of approximately $23 million, the project aims to enhance educational facilities and bolster STEM and arts programs. Construction is projected to begin in 2026, with completion expected by early 2028. The initiative includes safety upgrades and plans for new elementary schools in the area.
Bowling Green Plans Junior High School Expansion and Renovation
Bowling Green’s Junior High School is set to undergo major renovations and expansions to meet the demands of a growing student population. The Bowling Green Independent School District has approved plans for the project, anticipating enrollment will exceed 1,000 students by the 2025-2026 school year. The initiative aims to enhance educational facilities and accommodate the expansion of STEM and arts programs that are gaining popularity within the community.
The planned addition on the east side of Bowling Green Junior High School (BGJHS) will increase the school’s total area by 2,500 square feet. This expansion will require some adjustments, including modifications to the bus loop and field usage. The principal of BGJHS has confirmed that these changes are necessary to ensure the school can effectively serve its rising student body.
The construction phase of the project is being budgeted at approximately $23 million, funded through a bond issuance that is set to occur in the spring of 2026. Planning for the renovations will take place throughout this school year, with teachers working alongside architects to develop classroom designs that suit the needs of a growing student population. Construction work is expected to commence in the spring of 2026, with completion projected for late 2027 or early 2028.
As part of the renovation plan, the Bowling Green Independent School District has also approved a four-year District Facilities Plan (DFP) that outlines renovation priorities and future school projects. The DFP includes major renovations at BGJHS, such as roof replacements, updates to the HVAC system, and security enhancements, estimated to cost around $13.9 million. Additional safety upgrades include the installation of fencing, intercom systems, fire alarms, and emergency lighting, which are projected to cost approximately $2.4 million.
In addition to the renovations at BGJHS, future projects outlined in the DFP include the construction of new elementary schools—W.R. McNeill Elementary and Potter Gray Elementary—both equipped with storm shelters, anticipated to start after 2028. W.R. McNeill Elementary is estimated to cost $19.6 million and will serve around 500 students, while Potter Gray Elementary is expected to have a budget of $20.6 million, accommodating up to 525 students. Planning for these projects has been ongoing since September, with the planning committee conducting several public hearings to gather community feedback.
A public hearing regarding the DFP will take place on March 31, leading to a final vote on the plan later that same day. Additionally, in a related initiative, Bowling Green High School will introduce a new HVAC-refrigerant program in partnership with Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College, which will offer students dual credit options.
Looking ahead, groundbreaking for a new high school is scheduled for May 1, with the facility expected to open in Fall 2027. This development includes drilling 140 geothermal wells for an efficient heating and cooling system, likely qualifying for a significant tax credit of 40%. Following the construction of the new high school, plans will commence to convert the existing high school into an activities center, which is targeted to open in spring 2028.
FAQ
What is the estimated cost of the Bowling Green Junior High School expansion and renovation project?
The estimated cost for the expansion and renovation of Bowling Green Junior High School is approximately $23 million.
When is the construction of the expansion expected to start?
Construction is projected to start in the spring of 2026.
What are the key safety upgrades planned for Bowling Green Junior High School?
Key safety upgrades include the installation of fencing, intercom systems, fire alarms, and emergency lighting, with an estimated cost of approximately $2.4 million.
What future projects are planned under the District Facilities Plan?
Future projects under the DFP include new W.R. McNeill Elementary and Potter Gray Elementary schools, each equipped with storm shelters, anticipated starting after 2028.
Key Features of the Bowling Green Junior High School Expansion Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $23 million for expansion |
| Estimated Enrollment | Over 1,000 students by 2025-2026 |
| Planned Size Increase | 2,500 square feet addition |
| Safety Upgrades | Fencing, intercom, fire alarms, emergency lighting – $2.4 million |
| Renovation Cost | $13.9 million for roof, HVAC, security |
| New Schools Planned | W.R. McNeill and Potter Gray Elementary Schools |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green Junior High School Undergoes Major Renovation
Bowling Green Opens Applications for 2025 Scholarships
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Junior High School to be Renovated and Expanded
- Wikipedia: School Facility
- BG Daily News: BGISD Facilities Plan Approval
- Google Search: School Facilities Planning
- Sentinel Tribune: BGCS Groundbreaking for New High School
- Google Scholar: School Renovation Projects
- Fredericksburg Free Press: Creative Solutions for School Facilities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Renovations
- Sentinel Tribune: BG Breaks Ground on New High School
- Google News: Education Construction Projects
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
