The Surplus Schools Project was designed to stimulate and encourage the adaptive use and preservation of vacant school buildings in New York State. Through a statewide competition, the Preservation League selected four surplus schools that were located in four distinctly different communities and presented a broad range of problems and…

The Borough of Etobicoke (Ontario) has been seriously affected by declining enrollment. A long-term plan forecasts the necessity of closing many schools by 1987. This report presents findings of a 1978-79 study concerning the feasibility of converting unneeded school buildings to senior citizen housing. It includes drawings and descriptions of…

A guide for educators and citizens seeking alternative uses of vacant facilities. Discusses local, legal, economic, and social issues involved. Describes some of the alternative facility uses that include human service centers; use by other government agencies; and conversion to housing, private schools, colleges, and adult education facilities.…

Declining enrollments are leaving many districts with space they no longer need. The conversion of surplus school buildings to new uses can often provide communities with new vitality. Examples show unused schools converted for use as apartments, shops, and office space for public agencies. (Author/MLF)

Many school districts experiencing declining enrollments and the resultant surplus space have, with active citizen input, found workable solutions that increase the stability of neighborhoods by enriching the lives of persons of all ages. This report is a guide for educators and citizens seeking alternative uses of vacant facilities. Suggestions…