Seattle Public Schools seeks public input to an important stage in the renovation of Garfield High School - determining the factors that will be analyzed as part of a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. The District’s intention is to focus the environmental review on impacts to parking, traffic, land use, and historic and cultural resources. Public input is sought in developing and refining the list of factors.

A design team comprised of Garfield staff, parents, and community members is developing design plans for the school, due to be renovated between summer 2006 and fall 2008. The project includes historical renovation of the 1923 building, demolishing the 1929 annex and 1963 gymnasium, and building a new addition and gym while retaining the school's architectural character.

A community meeting will be held on November 13, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., followed by a “scoping” meeting at 8:15; both in the library at Garfield High School, 400 23rd Avenue. The first portion of the meeting will give the public an opportunity to review plans for the school. Members of Garfield’s school design team and District staff will be available to answer questions.

At the “scoping” meeting, comments will be sought on the scope of an Environmental Impact Statement and on the two project alternatives listed below:

Individuals who are not able to attend the meeting may mail comments, by November 20, 2003, to Ron English, Environmental Officer, Seattle Public Schools, MS 32-151, PO Box 34165, Seattle, WA 98124-1165.

The $78.8 million renovation and reconstruction project at Garfield High School is made possible through the $398 million Building Excellence Levy (BEX II), approved by voters in February 2001. The Building Excellence II levy also provides funds to rebuild or restore Roosevelt and Cleveland High Schools, Madison Middle School, and Brighton Elementary among others. For more information, call (206) 252-0655.