MONROE — Steady progress is being made toward finalizing plans for a new high school, following voter approval last month of an $88 million referendum.

That’s according to Monroe Superintendent. Rodney Figueroa, who told the school board at its most recent meeting Monday that talks are underway on a number of fronts — including for the necessary rezoning of the agricultural property by city officials.

The 77-acre site is located on the far east side of town off of 31st Avenue, and plans call for a new high school building and sports complex there. 

The more than 60-year-old existing high school building has water infiltration issues, exterior walls and floors separating from the main structure; as well as a host of heating, cooling and air circulation issues. Officials determined that it would almost cost as much to fix the old building as to construct a new one that’s designed for modern learning.

Voters approved the measure following a campaign by the district and information gathered from district residents in the wake of previous referendum attempts.

In the months ahead, the district is also planning to commission a number of necessary studies of the property and overall proposal — including those dealing with environmental impact, traffic, stormwater runoff, and other vital issues — prior to breaking ground. Officials also have begun to visit the location and take a look around the land slated for the future high school.

“We were able to get out and look at the site,” Figueroa said. “It looks a lot bigger without the corn (planted) on it.”

In addition, the referendum would see just over $3 million go to renovate Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, a move that is desperately needed to shore up that building for the future. 

School officials Monday also finalized plans to invest about $6.8 million in revenue related to the building project.

District officials said they hoped the high school project would be completed by Fall 2024, or early winter 2025.