Gables renovations’ next steps

Gables will continue to undergo renovations in upcoming years, aiming to create a more effective learning environment

BY DIVYA DAVE, STAFF WRITER

GABLES FIRST OPENED ITS doors to students in 1950 and, as of recently, the school stands as the fifth-largest high school in MiamiDade County, according to Niche. Gables is now facing a full renovation that will change the Spanish-style structure the school was built around by adding a modern touch. Phase one of this restoration included the renovation of the 6000 building which was completed in 2021.

Starting in January of 2023, renovations began across the school, ranging from the auditorium and the band and chorus rooms to the media center and the front of the school. This mainly includes the older buildings that have not yet been renovated.

“I think the buildings in the front should be renovated because it would bring new and fresh scenery to the school and could change the perspective through which people see Gables,” sophomore Emily Gutierrez said.

Since the renovation of the 6000s building has been completed, Phase two of the project has begun. This phase entails the renovation of the bathrooms and the installation of a new air-conditioning unit in different parts of the school. Windows from the band room to the building facing Bird Road will also be replaced and the interior of the hallways will be renovated and re-painted, with additional electrical upgrades. Additionally, a new gas system and fume hoods, ventilation systems that limit exposure to hazardous chemicals used for experiments, will be installed in science classrooms on the east part of campus. Furthermore, there will be upgrades to the fire alarm, additional security cameras installed and a replacement of the fence along the south part of school.

“A new air-conditioning unit in my math class and newer bathrooms would benefit me and all other students at Gables by improving our experience here,” freshman Lua Lara said.

This redevelopment process is being largely funded by a general obligation bond, a bond issued by the municipal government in order to obtain money for certain projects which may not already have a direct revenue stream.

On Nov. 6, 2022, Miami-Dade County

Public Schools asked voters in the county to invest in their schools. About 70% of voters supported this action, approving a $1.2 billion General Obligation Bond. The impact of this will be minimal for homeowners, while providing stable jobs for many, according to the official MDCPS website. Along with the numerous changes, this funding will assist with obtaining modern technology, adding new buildings and expanding the student capacity of the county’s schools. In all, the budget allocated for Gables will be $48,000,000.

Moreover, the plan for the continuation of normal school functions during the renovation entails that, while school is in session, a few classes will be temporarily relocated (i.e., the band room). However, interruptions will be minimal, as all major air-conditioning renovations will occur in the summer.

“There will be a more conducive learning environment. We will have brand new classrooms and the building will get the aesthetic upgrades that the students, staff, and community deserve,” Principal Tony Ullivarri said. Gables is hoping to close its doors to these renovations towards the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. After this large-scale project is completed, underclassmen, new Cavaliers, alumni, faculty and staff will be able to enjoy the new amenities added to campus.