Jackson County Schools using a new grant to conduct an environmental study of the vacant Fox Middle School in hopes of transforming the historic building into a community center.
Director of Schools Jason Hardy said the facility has been empty for nearly 20 years despite various attempts by the library and historical society to utilize the space. Hardy said the $83,000 TDEC grant will evaluate the long-standing concerns regarding potential environmental hazards like asbestos.
“We know there’s probably asbestos or some things in that building, but nobody can tell you exactly how big of an obstacle it is,” Hardy said. “So we felt like that we needed to have an actual study done and see what those obstacles are and then hopefully with this same grant that we can start to eliminate those obstacles.”
Hardy said the study will provide a clear picture of the internal condition of the building and the specific costs associated with a full renovation. Hardy said the structure was built in the 1930s and likely requires significant remediation or encasement of materials to meet modern safety standards for public use.
“The biggest thing is exactly what’s going on inside that building and if we are to renovate it, what exactly those obstacles are, how much it would cost, and even if it’s feasible,” Hardy said.
Hardy said the building holds significant historical value for Gainesboro residents because it previously served as both a high school and a middle school. Hardy said the central location in downtown Gainesboro makes it an ideal candidate for enhancement, as it has always functioned as a place for education and community support.
“It’s one of the nicer built buildings back when they built buildings the right way,” Hardy said. “So just a lot of historical impact, a lot of memories, a lot of good things that have been tied with that.”
Hardy said the lack of local activities often forces youth and retired residents to travel to Putnam County or Macon County for recreation and fitness. Hardy said a local community center would provide a weight facility, gym and gathering space for residents of all ages within Jackson County.
“If it’s not involving schools in general, our youth don’t have anything to really do, they don’t have a lot of activities,” Hardy said. “There’s not a lot here in Gainesboro, so a lot of times they’re having to travel to Putnam County or Macon County to do things like go shoot basketball in a gym or go have a weight facility.”
Hardy said a committee representing various county organizations is currently exploring fundraising opportunities and additional grants to support the project. Hardy said the group has also engaged in discussions with the YMCA regarding a potential partnership to manage the facility if the renovation moves forward.
“There’s some things in place right now that if the building can be renovated and can be fixed up to the standards to allow people in there and no environmental issues, if we can get the funding… that’ll always be the key as in everything,” Hardy said. “But there is a strong committee and a strong willingness from the community to pitch in and help to get this community center accomplished.”
Hardy said his personal optimism for the project stems from his role in education and his desire to provide better resources for local families. Hardy said the project represents an extension of his professional mission to help people by creating a space for gathering and educational support.
“That’s why I got into education was to help people, and I think this is just an extension of that where maybe a community center, but we’re still educating people and we’re still helping people,” Hardy said. “And Jackson County has a strong community, and I think that this is just something that’s so positive for our county.”
