West40 has reached several renovation milestones at the former St. Joseph High School as of mid-October, as we build a state-of-the art residential school for up to 40 foster children.
We have completed asbestos abatement for the school’s office, community area, existing boiler plant, and corresponding phased piping. We have also installed a new energy efficient HVAC system in the school. Meanwhile, the buildings on the north end of the property have been completely demolished and removed.
Still, West40 is waiting on funding from the state and other sources needed to begin the next phases of the renovation. A construction timeline is under development.
Meanwhile, West40 is excited about the possibility of gathering input from community members to design sustainable and responsible environmental practices on the St. Joseph property that harmonizes with the surrounding neighborhood and community.
According to West40 Director of Facilities Jeanne Keane, the designs may include butterfly gardens.
“Introducing butterfly-friendly plants and native wildflowers not only creates vibrant and aesthetically pleasing spaces, but also supports local pollinator populations,” said Keane. “These gardens can also serve as educational tools, providing students with hands-on experiences to learn about the importance of biodiversity and the interdependence of ecosystems.”
West40 purchased the St. Joseph property in 2023 and will operate the school with financial support from the State of Illinois.