Plover-Whiting Elementary School slated for new additions

By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer

PLOVER — Plover Plan Commission members unanimously approved a conditional use permit for additions coming to Plover-Whiting Elementary School on June 17.

Village staff discussed the project with the community at a public hearing before the approval. The additions include new offices and classroom spaces on the north side of the existing building and a redeveloped parking lot.

“Overall the proposed plan meets or exceeds the minimum zoning requirements,” said Plover Community Development Administrator Ryan Kernosky.

Citizens voiced concerns about the project being a “band-aid” to Plover’s shortage of educational facilities. Village Administrator Dan Mahoney noted the project is intended to relieve Plover-Whiting’s entry and exit safety issues, and that the village would work with the school district for long-term planning on the area’s academic growth.

Area of the planned changes coming to Plover-Whiting.

“It clearly was not meant to address the space needs that are longer term,” Mahoney said about the project. “That is something that is out there, and the school district is aware of that.”

Mahoney added: “We remain concerned about school district facilities in the village of Plover, especially considering the significant residential growth that we are now having.”

Mahoney explained that village faculty would work with the school district to find a solution to the shortage of facility space. The redeveloped parking lot will feature expanded grounds on the west side of the existing lot and a different striping style, allowing for more parking stalls.

The change would give the school 63 stalls, almost doubling the current count of 36. Plover-Whiting is working with Nexus Solutions on the expansion. The school has started the tree removal process as plans for the outline move forward. Village staff noted that the school would be responsible for adding trees, shrubs and foliage to the property to aid in dampening sound and light spillover after completion of the project.

Plover-Whiting Elementary School is located at 1400 Hoover Avenue.

Contact Taylor J. Hale at [email protected] with Portage County news and information.