A construction and renovation project that began in May of 2021 is nearing completion just in time for the new school year at Norwalk Community High School.

The school district’s newly-built Physical Education and Competition Center will feature a new gymnasium with three basketball courts, a wrestling room, three locker rooms, a two-story fitness area, and a second-floor walking track around the perimeter of the gym.

Also included in the $24 million bond project – approved by Norwalk voters in March of 2020 – are six new classrooms, a large multi-purpose area and renovations to the existing high school building.

First-year Norwalk High School Activities Director Josh Tobey says that the project is getting closer to the finish line, with many areas just needing a final push with light fixtures or a drop ceiling. Tobey adds that the volleyball season will begin with games held in the old high school gymnasium until the new gym is competition ready with bleachers – hopefully by late September.

According to Tobey, the wrestling room, weight room and speed and agility room are expected to be finished by the time school starts on August 23.

“It’s going to be fantastic for the kids,” Tobey said. “I think they’re going to be shocked and excited when they get back into school and see what’s in store for them for P.E. and athletics.”

During the summer, Norwalk also had a brand new layer of FieldTurf installed at Warrior Football Stadium and Tobey says that new goalposts are expected to be up by mid-August.