After years of advocacy, Elkridge will finally get a new high school. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced that county-owned land at Troy Park will officially become the site of 'High School 14'. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the community, as it has been a long-standing issue. The site was first announced in 2020 and has undergone further evaluation since then. Ball's office emphasizes the importance of this step, stating that it will allow the Board of Education to incorporate High School 14 into the school system's long-range planning efforts. This development is particularly exciting for the community, as it has been advocating for a new high school for years. The site selection process was thorough, considering multiple options, including Timbers at Troy Golf and a site at 6571 Washington Blvd. However, due to logistical challenges and the cost of acquiring privately owned parcels, the Washington Boulevard site was eliminated. Ultimately, Troy Park emerged as the most environmentally friendly option. The county's commitment to meeting land conversion requirements for the school's construction is commendable. Cornell Brown, chief operations officer for HCPSS, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to secure this property for the future needs of the school system. This partnership between the county and the school system is a proactive approach to planning, ensuring greater certainty and strategic responses to emerging needs. The Board of Education will now determine the timeline for the school's construction and opening, bringing this long-awaited project one step closer to reality. This announcement is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of addressing the needs of a growing community. It highlights the county's dedication to providing educational facilities and the positive impact it will have on the students of Elkridge.
