![]() One of the grandest and oldest high schools in southern Colorado is receiving up to $1 million in federal funding as part of a long-range restoration effort. Located at 215 E Orman Avenue, the Classic Revival-style Keating School was built in 1927 and is distinguished by its front six sandstone columns. Originally called the Central Junior High School, the building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is treasured by preservationists for its interior terrazzo floors, multiple-colored masonry, and two-level auditorium with a seating capacity of 600. That auditorium is distinguished by its exposed beamed ceiling and plaster floral ornamented balcony. Closed since 2009, the school has been the focal point of local efforts to restore and upgrade the structure. A non-profit group, fittingly called the Keating School, has estimated that it may cost as much as $18 million to bring the building up to date. In updating the building, a portion of it will be repurposed for housing. Additional plans have called for creating retail space, restaurants, an art gallery, fitness center, and general workspace in the building. The larger tree-lined site, meanwhile, is expected to see the creation of community gardens. That effort is now being aided by the awarding of a $1 million Brownfields Assessment Grant, via the Environmental Protection Agency. That funding, according to an EPA press release, will be used to clear the school’s site of asbestos, mercury, and other hazardous materials. In a statement, Kathleen Becker, EPA regional administrator, said the agency is “proud to support the property’s redevelopment as a theatre and new housing to complement growing investments in the community.” By Garry Boulard
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