Boynton Beach welcomes proposals for development at old high school

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. - The old Boynton Beach High School is a symbol, and an echo of student spirit from long ago. Built in 1927 on Ocean Avenue, it has been empty and decaying for 15 plus years.

"It's a shame to see a building that could be put to good use and be attractive just sitting there empty," says Terry Winters of Boynton Beach.

The city wants to change that. Studies show the building could be modernized and used for a new generation of students, or office and retail space, or for the arts and culture.

The city wants developers to pitch ideas, and hit one out of the park. Commissioners are willing to waive some fees and offer tax credits as a lure.

"Really what we're looking for is the best possible project. The city is ready to step up with some incentives to make it more palatable," says Bill Orlove, a Boynton Beach City Commissioner.

Commissioner Orlove admits, the building will be expensive to renovate - in the $5 million price range. The inside hasn't been maintained, and the outside - well, nature and time have been unforgiving.

But when you look at what once were memories of school days, glimpses of the past, Orlove says it's a potential jewel for Boynton Beach.

"I think it says a lot about who we are as a community and gives us a sense of history and purpose of where we've come and where we're going," says Orlove.

The city will start accepting proposals next month and continue through the end of the year.

Commissioners hope to choose the winning proposal in the first part of next year.