Mobile County Public School System to see major upgrades in 42-year-old local high school

Built nearly half a century ago, John L. LeFlore Magnet High School (LMHS) is a historic magnet school in Mobile, Alabama, focused on fine and performing arts studies.

Due to the weathered condition of the existing Just 4 campus which shared the LeFlore site, a complete remodel was no longer a want, but a need for current and future Rattlers. 

The three-phase project includes major renovations to the site, along with the addition of a brand-new wing that will front St. Stephens Road. Although construction has and will remain ongoing during the full process, split phases allow students to continue their education uninterrupted year-round.

During the initial design process, Mobile County Public School System (MCPSS) worked alongside Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) to prioritize the safety of LMHS students and staff.

Once completed, the facility will feature upgrades that enhance visibility and security, including glass-enclosed connectors that allow students to fully navigate the campus indoors. In addition, a continuous monitoring system with controlled access lobbies and security motion detection system, as well as security cameras, will be installed throughout the campus.

The K-12 school is currently finishing up Phase I of the project, including the complete renovation of the existing auditorium, pool and two gymnasiums, as well as a new addition, all to be completed by the end of this year.  

Phase II was previously completed over the summer as a “floating phase,” featuring an upgraded kitchen and cafeteria. 

Construction will soon begin on the final phase, including the demolition of existing classrooms, renovation of the science wing and development of a new bus canopy and teacher parking.

Overall, the project aims to expand student enrollment in the magnet program to more than 1,600, representing the largest investment in MCPSS history.

GMC is providing architecture, interior design, civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, landscape architecture, environmental, surveying and construction materials testing services, with Rolin Construction as the general contractor.