JONESBORO – Clayton County School System acquired the old Sears building at Southlake Mall.
The $4.4 million property will serve as a convention center and arena. A $50 million renovation project will transform this space into a 7,000-seat arena.
“I’m really looking forward to honoring these 12th graders who graduate indoors at a Clayton County facility with enough seating and parking to support it,” said Jessie Goree, Clayton County Board of Education Chair. everyone who wants to study.
Director Morcease Beasley said discussions about the purchase began several years ago.
“This arena will allow us to celebrate our seniors with indoor graduation ceremonies in this district. Total facilities will also be provided for other community and regional events,” he said.
The district will use $40 million in Special Purpose Local Options Sales taxes VI to pay for the project. The county is expected to pay $10 million. The board expects to see the first concept designs in January 2022, followed by a finished design in July 2022.
The purchase was approved by the Board of Education on August 30.
