The Osceola School District recently celebrated the initiation of a significant project with the groundbreaking ceremony for the new AAA High School. Scheduled to open in 2026, this state-of-the-art educational facility aims to address overcrowding issues at existing schools and provide a sustainable learning environment for the expanding community. The campus will span an impressive 46 acres and feature modern infrastructure designed to promote energy efficiency and accommodate over 2,500 students. The project reflects a collaborative effort between various stakeholders and represents a major step towards enhancing education in eastern Osceola County.
A Vision for Sustainable Education
The design of the new AAA High School prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency. With an Energy Utilization Index (EUI) target of 25 or less, the school will incorporate advanced systems to minimize environmental impact. The three-story classroom building will house administrative offices, media centers, and guidance services, all integrated into a cohesive structure that supports both functionality and innovation. The inclusion of separate traffic loops for buses and parents, along with covered canopies, ensures convenience and protection from the elements during drop-off and pick-up times.
The campus layout includes 11 permanent buildings covering 345,640 square feet, making it one of the largest projects in the district. Key features include an auditorium, music rooms, dining hall, gymnasium, and central plant for efficient energy management. Outdoor facilities such as a track, football field, basketball and tennis courts, and softball and baseball fields provide ample space for physical activities. Additionally, the school will have 777 parking spaces and updated utility systems to support its operations. This comprehensive approach ensures that the new high school is well-equipped to meet the needs of both students and staff.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The AAA High School project signifies a commitment to addressing the growing demands of the community. By alleviating overcrowding at Harmony and St. Cloud High Schools, it offers a much-needed solution for local education challenges. The school board and superintendent emphasize the importance of providing top-quality education in modern facilities that foster success and prepare students for future endeavors. This initiative not only enhances the educational experience but also strengthens the foundation for long-term community development.
Chairwoman Heather Kahoun highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting that the new school will serve as a cornerstone for the future of education in eastern Osceola County. Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff echoed these sentiments, underscoring the district's dedication to meeting the needs of its growing population. The collaboration between the school board, Schenkel Shultz, and Wharton-Smith, Inc., has resulted in a $184 million investment aimed at creating a world-class educational environment. This project exemplifies the district's commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and student success, setting a precedent for future educational initiatives in the region.
In an effort to enhance local infrastructure, Colorado Springs is currently undergoing a significant utility project on Galley Road. The road, located on the south side of the city, has seen closures and traffic disruptions due to the replacement of a major water main. This project, which began in summer 2024, aims to improve water service reliability in the area. Divided into four phases, the current phase started in January 2025 and involves replacing 4000 feet of water main and adding new lining to an additional mile of existing pipe. Until Tuesday, drivers should expect a full closure at the intersection of Galley and Wooten Roads, with no turns allowed from Wooten onto Galley. Despite the temporary inconvenience, officials assure that these improvements will significantly benefit the community for years to come.
The utility work on Galley Road is part of a larger initiative by Colorado Springs Utilities to upgrade critical infrastructure. Initiated last summer, this multi-phase project focuses on enhancing water service reliability in the southern part of the city. Phase two, which commenced in January 2025, brings significant changes as crews replace 4000 feet of water main and add a new lining to a mile of existing pipeline. Alexy Trefry, a spokesperson for Colorado Springs Utilities, emphasized the importance of this project, stating that while it may cause some disruption now, it will greatly improve water services in the long term. The extreme freeze in mid-January exacerbated conditions, leading to additional water main breaks, but the project remains on schedule to be completed by March 2025.
During this phase, Galley Road at Wooten Road will remain closed until Tuesday, prohibiting any turns from Wooten onto Galley. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of workers and the public as they undertake the complex task of replacing and upgrading the water mains. Residents and commuters are advised to seek alternative routes during this period. The project's completion will not only enhance water service reliability but also mitigate future issues caused by aging infrastructure. The team at Colorado Springs Utilities is committed to minimizing disruptions and ensuring the project progresses smoothly.
Despite the temporary inconveniences, the benefits of this utility project will be felt for many years. By improving water service reliability and addressing potential future issues, the upgrades will provide long-term advantages to the community. The efforts made by Colorado Springs Utilities highlight their dedication to maintaining and enhancing essential infrastructure. As the project moves forward, residents can look forward to improved water services and a more resilient system. The anticipated completion in March 2025 marks a significant milestone for the city's ongoing commitment to infrastructure development.
In a noteworthy development, residents of Montgomery Hills are set to challenge the construction permits for a new Royal Farms store during an upcoming public hearing. The case has been filed with the county’s Board of Appeals by eleven local residents who claim they would be adversely affected by the proposed development. These individuals argue that the changes violate several aspects of the Montgomery County Code and could negatively impact their daily lives.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed Changes
In the heart of Montgomery Hills, a group of concerned citizens is taking a stand against the transformation of a Beltway Car Care/Sunoco station into a Royal Farms convenience store. Located at 9475 Georgia Avenue, this site has been the subject of debate since last April when the construction permit applications were first submitted. The Board of Permitting Services issued permits worth over $200,000 in the fall, but now, the community is raising objections.
The appellants have detailed their concerns in a comprehensive 147-page filing. They argue that the proposed modifications go beyond the current use of the property and could lead to significant disruptions. Among the issues raised are potential traffic congestion, increased parking challenges, and a rise in motor fuel sales. Additionally, residents fear that the new establishment might bring unwanted side effects such as excessive lighting, noise, unpleasant odors, and even vermin.
The public hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, January 29th, at 9:30 a.m., will take place at the Montgomery County Board of Appeals in Rockville. This meeting promises to be a critical moment where both sides will present their arguments, and the future of the project may be decided.
From a journalist's perspective, this case highlights the ongoing tension between commercial development and community well-being. It serves as a reminder that while progress and expansion can bring economic benefits, they must also be carefully balanced with the needs and concerns of those who call the area home. The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for how similar projects are evaluated in the future, emphasizing the importance of thorough planning and community engagement.