LISBON — As design concepts are still being finalized, renovations at Philip W. Sugg Middle School are slated to begin next year, according to Superintendent Richard Green.

Green recently announced the timeline for development, construction and opening of the renovated spaces. The concept is still being finalized now, design and development are expected to begin in May, bids should go out in December. Construction is expected to start February 2026 and be completed by June 2027 for students to move in by August 2027, Green said.

“We’re anxious to get started and anxious to have this work done for our kids,” he said.

Voters approved a $6 million bond last November to allow an addition and partial renovation inside the school. The 25-year bond will carry a 6% interest rate but Green believes by the time the school is issued the bond the interest rate will be lower, he said. With a 6% interest rate, the school department would spend about $11.6 million on the bond.

The need to renovate the more than 40-year-old building comes as town schools have experienced an increase in student enrollment in recent years, Green said. Renovating the building now means the town can get use of it longer, instead of having to build a new school.

“This will definitely put us in a position where I don’t see us in need for a new building,” he said. “… This should definitely put us in a very good spot. I don’t see us ever, at least in my tenure, ever needing a new construction for several years, if at all.”

The renovations and additions include the kitchen and gym and adding five classrooms, along with some other additions, Green said.

Currently the kitchen, gym and library are all small spaces and are not being used to their full potential or it is difficult to use the facilities because of the space issue, Green said. The new classrooms will support specialty subjects, such as art and music – among others.

The community has supported the school department’s efforts to keep facilities and equipment in good shape, approving most of the funding department officials have put forward.

Keeping buildings in good shape helps support students’ education, Green said.  “The Lisbon School Department is very fortunate to have the support of its communities and we are excited and anxious to start this project,” he said. “… It’ll provide great learning and instructional opportunities for our students moving forward.”