Several renovations at Lincoln Middle/High School are winding down this month, and a few projects are expected to be finished early in the new year.
During the Dec. 10 Western Wayne Schools board meeting, Director of Facilities Matt Webb provided a construction update.
Webb said most classrooms and hallways were then 95-98% done with just a few punch list items remaining, such as touching up paint and addressing any issues with flooring in the vocational wing.
Bright lighting, paint and flooring have brightened up the school, he said. Painted lines near teachers’ doors designate wings rather than painting each wing a different color.
All classrooms have new furniture, and blinds, bulletin boards and whiteboards have been installed.
A couple classes still needed to move in as of Dec. 10.
The front office was projected to be finished by Dec. 22, and the main entrance might reopen after the holiday break.
Webb said the look and layout of the school entrance were temporarily different, but the transition was safe and smooth, and he appreciated everyone’s patience.
Webb said progress on the media center is close behind, and he hoped it would be ready after the holiday break or early in the semester.
Exterior gutter and downspout painting had to cease at about 75% complete when crews were caught by unseasonably cold weather. Those projects will resume in the spring.
Landscaping also will be tackled in warmer weather, when some students might be recruited to help. Webb said landscaping offers a good learning experience. And, when students help with improvements, he believes they hold their peers accountable in maintaining them.
Finishing touches are being added to the cafeteria, including a giant school decal on the wall. New doors are to be installed over the break.
The gym and its lobby are on schedule for February completion, with locker rooms and public restrooms about 95% complete. Minor paint and floor fixes are needed.
The parking lot asphalt was finished as the paving season ended for winter, and mud and dust should start going away.
The gym’s new chairs and descending flag were used for the Veterans Day program.
Regarding the gym’s concessions area, Webb said most mechanical rough-ins were to be completed by Dec. 19. The area will be tented and heated just in time to keep the work progressing.
Webb said he’s heard nothing but compliments from visitors from other schools and communities.
He’s hopeful the renovations will help promote the school and attract more students.
Planning has begun for elementary school renovations that are to start next summer.
A version of this article appeared in the December 24 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.