Master Plan proposes major changes to New Hanover High School

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Big changes could be coming to New Hanover High School in downtown Wilmington.

A new master plan outlining several long-term options for the school’s future is expected to be presented to the New Hanover County Board of Education next week. The proposal addresses safety concerns, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of adequate classroom space.

One option would involve building a brand-new high school on a 70-acre site. A location has not yet been identified. The estimated cost of that project is $280 million.

Another proposal involves a phased hybrid approach. The first phase, projected at $60 million, would focus on perimeter security improvements and new construction. Subsequent phases — each spanning about three years — would cost between $42 million and $75 million. These phases would renovate existing buildings and add learning spaces.

The complete hybrid plan could take up to 12 years to finish, with an estimated total cost of $230 million.

The school board has not yet made any decisions regarding the proposals. The full presentation will be linked on our website as it becomes available.

Here is the full presentation.