Significant progress has been made on the Lyons CSD Capital Project over the past several months, and many improvements will be ready for students when they return in September.
At the Elementary School, most classroom renovations and updates to shared spaces have been completed. Upgraded lighting and renovations throughout the building have modernized classrooms and common areas, creating spaces that better support teaching and learning. Bathrooms have also been added to UPK classrooms and the cafeteria, creating a more supportive and accessible environment for our youngest students.
Work continues on the redesigned pick-up and drop-off loop. In the century since the Elementary School was built, transportation needs have greatly changed. The adjustments will improve safety, convenience, and accessibility. This remains one of the most significant parts of the project and addresses ongoing concerns raised by families, staff, and the community. When complete, the layout will improve traffic flow, increase visibility, and create a safer, more efficient arrival and dismissal process while providing space for student activities and outdoor play.
Both the Elementary School gymnasiums are also nearing completion and will be ready for students in the Fall. These spaces will benefit students and the community by supporting PE classes, extracurricular activities, and community programs for years to come. Taking into consideration that the elementary roof was replaced along with installing two new playgrounds, the vast majority of space inside and outside has been improved.
The Elementary auditorium is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. New seating, upgraded technology, and accessibility improvements, including ADA upgrades, will create an improved space for concerts, performances, assemblies, and other events. While these updates prepare the auditorium for the future, they will also preserve the character and rich history that have made it a cherished part of our school community for generations.
In the Middle School wing, classrooms have been renovated and prepared to welcome sixth-grade students this fall. These improvements provide students with updated learning spaces and help make their transition to the Middle School a positive one.
Additional work will also continue throughout the rest of the district. The former water treatment plant was removed, and work is continuing in that area; improvements at the Lyons Community Center are progressing with additional space being added and upgrades to technology, security, and the air-handling system. Continued upgrades at the Transportation Facility and districtwide safety advancements are on schedule.
Looking ahead, work on the state-of-the-art fitness center is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The new facility will provide expanded opportunities for student wellness and athletics while also serving as a valuable resource for community use.
We remain proud of the progress being made and what these improvements will mean for our students and community. Made possible through years of thoughtful planning and the community's support of the voter-approved capital project, these enhancements are being completed without any additional local tax impact on Lyons residents.
These projects are more than building improvements; they are an investment in the future of Lyons. For decades, our schools have served as the heart of our community, welcoming generations of students, families, staff, and neighbors. While these buildings have stood the test of time, they deserve thoughtful updates that preserve their history while preparing them for the future. By modernizing spaces for learning, athletics, the arts, and community events, we are ensuring that our students and the entire Lyons community have facilities they can be proud of for generations to come.
Capital project updates are available on the Lyons Central School District website.
