Wilson Area School Board Weighs Land Purchase Near Intermediate School

The Wilson Area School Board is currently considering the purchase of a parcel of land adjacent to the intermediate school located in Wilson Borough, Pennsylvania. This matter was discussed at the board’s meeting on December 15, 2023, and was listed on the agenda as the “Balata Street property discussion.”

Superintendent Harrison Bailey III indicated that the district is in need of additional maintenance and storage space, making the land a potential fit due to its proximity to the intermediate school. “No decisions have been made at this time,” Bailey stated. He emphasized that if acquired, the parcel would likely serve multiple purposes, including maintenance facilities, although he did not provide the specific address of the land under consideration.

Currently, there is a one-acre parcel available at 1350 Balata St., which is directly adjacent to the baseball field of the intermediate school. This parcel is listed for sale at $1.2 million and includes a 12,000-square-foot warehouse. The intermediate school itself is located at 2400 Firmstone St.

High School Stadium Improvements Under Review

The school district is also moving forward with a significant improvement plan for the high school stadium, which entails an investment of $40 million. This extensive plan includes the construction of a new gymnasium, classrooms, and technology labs at the high school. The project was reviewed by the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission on December 16, 2023.

According to the agenda provided by the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, the existing Wilson Area High School stadium and auxiliary building will be demolished as part of the redevelopment. Additionally, the existing parking lot in the northeast corner of the property, which contains vital stormwater infrastructure, will also be removed.

Plans for the new auxiliary building include retaining the existing catwalk that spans South 22nd Street, which connects Wilson Area High School to the new facility. This new structure will be constructed atop the former parking lot. The redevelopment will also expand the parking lot in the southeast corner and introduce additional unimproved parking in the athletic field to accommodate overflow during events.

As discussions continue regarding both the potential land purchase and the high school improvements, the Wilson Area School Board remains focused on enhancing facilities to better serve the community and its students.