Conroe Nears Calfee Multi-Use Community Hub Deal

**Conroe Poised for Major Community Transformation as City Nears Deal to Acquire Former Calfee Middle School for $5 Million**

Conroe, TX – A significant civic development is on the horizon for the City of Conroe, as both municipal and school district leaders are set to consider a landmark agreement for the city to acquire the former Calfee Middle School property. Valued at $5 million, the proposed deal would transform the 10-acre site at 1500 N. Frazier Street into a expansive multi-use community facility, greatly enhancing public services and spaces for Conroe residents.

The former Calfee Middle School, a long-standing educational institution built in 1964, saw its last cohort of students depart in the summer of 2023 following the opening of the new Peet Junior High. This move freed up the 150,000 square-foot building, presenting a unique opportunity for repurposing a centrally located and substantial property.

Under the City of Conroe’s ambitious vision, the revitalized facility would become a vibrant community hub. A centerpiece of this plan is a vastly expanded library, potentially growing to an impressive 40,000 to 50,000 square feet. This would represent a monumental increase from the current 12,500 square-foot Conroe Public Library, addressing a long-felt need for more space and resources. Beyond the library, the site is envisioned to include a variety of meeting and event spaces, catering to numerous community groups and functions. Furthermore, there’s potential for a Conroe Police Department sub-station, enhancing public safety and accessibility in the area.

“From the district’s perspective, we really want to see this facility continue serving the community rather than sitting vacant,” stated Conroe ISD Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null, expressing the district’s desire for the property to maintain its public purpose.

Conroe Mayor Jody Czajkoski echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the strategic importance of the location. “This building’s central location on Frazier Street makes it ideal for a major community asset,” Czajkoski noted, emphasizing its accessibility for residents across the city.

Funding for the acquisition, as explained by City Administrator Paul Virgadamo, is anticipated to combine federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars with existing bond funds. Critically, Virgadamo clarified that this purchase would be made **without requiring new taxes** from Conroe residents, a detail likely to be well-received by the community.

Both the Conroe ISD Board of Trustees and the Conroe City Council are scheduled to consider and potentially vote on a draft agreement in the coming days. The CISD Board has called a special meeting for Tuesday, February 6th, while the City Council is set to take up the matter at their regular session on Thursday, February 8th.

If approved, the acquisition marks a significant step forward for Conroe, reflecting the city’s growth and its commitment to investing in public infrastructure. Repurposing a key educational property into a modern, multi-faceted community center would not only preserve a piece of Conroe’s history but also lay the groundwork for enhanced public services and community engagement for generations to come.

Further details regarding the project timeline, design concepts, and public input opportunities are expected to emerge following the potential approvals from both governing bodies. Residents are encouraged to monitor official announcements from the City of Conroe and Conroe ISD for updates.