In preparation for the opening of Wadsworth’s new Central Intermediate School in August 2025, the Wadsworth School Board requested a proposal to sell the current Central Intermediate School building in November 2024 — and quickly.
The redevelopment of the Central Intermediate School property will transform the site into a multi-functional cultural professional and residential hub.
“By focusing on historical preservation and community-driven innovation, this project will enhance Wadsworth’s downtown vibrancy and economic vitality. The plan is phased to ensure immediate activation of the property while fostering sustainable long-term growth,” the proposal stated.
“The (Wadsworth School) Board was impressed by the One Central Common’s vision for the building and how it aligns not only with the Central Intermediate School Committee’s recommendation to the Board in November of 2017, but also its potential to be an economic boom to the Wadsworth community while protecting the tax base that helps to operate the school district and city,” Superintendent Dr. Andy Hill said in a news release.
The school district’s goal for the site has been preservation and rehabilitation of the current building, in some capacity, with a priority on the preservation of the OJ Work Auditorium as a community landmark for the City of Wadsworth.The property and building was listed at more than $3.7 million. The purchase offer was $300,000 cash and did not request a real estate tax reduction.
In the proposal, the first milestone would encompass improvements to the “crown jewel” — OJ Work Auditorium. Other exciting milestones include high-end urban apartments and theatre suites.
The board intends to work with One Central Commons and the Medina County Port Authority to facilitate the redevelopment of the school. It’s anticipated the earliest they would transfer ownership would be sometime in January 2026.
The full proposal from One Central Commons can be read HERE.
