Big things are on the horizon for Martinsville High School! After decades of discussion and planning, we are taking the next steps toward building a brand-new gym—a much-needed addition that will provide our students and community with a top-tier facility for athletics, events, and more.
The Journey So Far
The idea of a new gym for Martinsville High School isn't new. In 1993, a facilities study identified three major projects: renovations at Albert Harris Elementary, expansions at Martinsville Middle School, and a new gym for Martinsville High School. While the first two projects were completed, the gym remained on the wish list, just out of reach. Then, between 2010 and 2012, new designs were created, bringing us closer to construction. However, various hurdles put the project on hold once again.
Now, we're ready to move forward!
What's Coming?
In the current schematic, created in in the early 2010s, the new gym will be built on part of the upper parking lot and into the hillside near the current recreational gym on the MHS campus. This state-of-the-art facility will:
Seat 2,500 spectators – perfect for regional and state competitions!
Feature an indoor track – 200 yards in length, with plexiglass railings offering full court visibility.
Include dedicated spaces – a weight room, wrestling room, locker rooms, showers, and more.
Have a modern lobby area – with a ticket booth, concessions, and office space.
Be adaptable for multiple events – partitions will allow the main court to be divided for different activities.
As our committee meets and works with a new company to update plans to meet current codes and standards, new ideas may also be incorporated! We can’t wait to see how this project develops!
While the original design from 2011 estimated the cost at $10-12 million, updates are needed to align with today’s building codes and materials. In the coming weeks, we will hire a firm to refine the plans and develop a new cost estimate.
More Than Just a Gym
This facility isn’t just for Martinsville High School—it’s for the entire community. Our students will finally have a home court that can host regional and state contests, robotics competitions, and large-scale events. With major tournaments bringing visitors to town, this project will also contribute to Martinsville’s local economy. Additionally, our indoor walking track will be accessible to everyone at no cost.
As Superintendent Dr. Talley put it, “We’re more than just a school, we’re a community.”
The vision is clear, and we're going to make it a reality. Stay tuned for more updates as we take the next steps toward building the gym that our students and our city deserve!
The color renderings included here are based on the schematic created in the early 2010s. The design and features may change as we work to update those schematics with new ideas and updated building codes and materials.