GHS CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
On behalf of the Galena School District, we would like to express our deepest gratitude for your support in approving the high school referendum. The election results show that voters have approved the Galena High School referendum 1352 votes (65.09%) to 721 votes (34.91%). Thank you for trusting our school district and for taking the time to participate in the March 19 election. The voter turnout nearly doubled the percentage of the county and the primaries across the state.
We understand that this decision was not made lightly, and we are humbled by the overwhelming support that we have received from the Galena community. Your generosity and commitment to our schools have demonstrated your understanding of the importance of education and the future of Galena High School.
The purpose of this page is to provide updates on the project, including timelines for completion and phasing as the project continues.
Current pictures: Updated 2.6.26
During the 25-26 school year, there has been substantial progress on this project. While most see this from the outside as they drive by, we wanted to share pictures few rarely see live.
Please reach out for group tours if you would like to experience the inside of the building as we continue construction. Please note that it is a live construction site and a physical tour is not recommended for those with accessibility or mobility issues.
Tour contact information:
Mr. Tim Vincent
tvincent@gusd120.org
(815) 777-3086
Exterior from South
South view
From athletic field
Cafeteria
Senior Wing Classroom
Cafeteria 2
Locker rooms
Senior wing
Cafeteria look from library
Main office
Science Lab
New Core Clasroom
Core Classroom
View from Library
Exterior renovation
Weight room
Senior wing classroom
Hallway to GEMS
Senior wing ctd
Weight room 2
Exterior library
Art room
Band room
Science lab
Exterior from back
Senior hallway
Metals
Woods class
New Core classroom
New exterior (back)
Gym 1
Gym 2
Livestream-see our progress live!
Pre-construction rendering
What is being done?
What will be renovated? The project consists of a classroom addition between the current GHS site and new GEMS site, as well as security upgrades for the building with infrastructure improvements. The 1957 original high school portion will be deconstructed for the updated gymnasium and the 1960s area known as Senior Hall (classrooms facing the football field) will be renovated.
What is the cost of this renovation? The total cost of the renovation and construction is expected to be $33 million, and $14.2 million was secured by the referendum in March 2024. The district reserves and tourism sales tax will be used for $14.2 million of the project, and the district has been awarded Federal grants and rebate incentives of over $4.5 million.
Why is the project needed? Improvements are needed to our high school to install a secure entry and ensure the safety of students inside and outside the building.
1957 original plumbing, water, mechanical, and electrical infrastructure needs to be replaced and updated.
Energy-efficient systems and introduction of air conditioning will enhance student learning.
What are the phases of this project?
The project has been split into two "phases" based on summer break and the importance of enabling students to be in new learning spaces as soon as possible. Below is a brief description of the phases:
Phase 1 is the bulk of the project and includes all new classrooms, gym, library, band room, main office, and the renovation of senior wing (all geothermal climate controlled). Phase 1 is estimated to be completed early summer of 2026. Prioritizing student spaces was a Board priority in phase 1 so that students can begin the 26-27 school year in new, climate controlled learning spaces.
Phase 2 is the remaining part of the project and includes a district office, receiving garage, demolition of the Franklin side of GHS, parking lot, sidewalks, and landscaping. The final part of the project is estimated to be done in late spring of 2027.
Track and Athletic Field
On August 12th 2025, the board unanimously approved an additional track and turf athletic field project based on the recommendation of the facility subcommittee and stakeholders. Financial projections on the project are an estimated $3 million, funded by $1 million in interest earnings and 1% sales tax creating more revenue than projected. The district invested the revenue from referendum and reserves in a series of CDs at 5% interest until it is scheduled to be spent on the project.
In order for a regulation track to be added to campus, the athletic field and track orientation was turned 90 degrees from the previous alignment. Please see the aerial picture below.
This project is expected to be completed in June of 2026.
