Bid to put home on historic register questioned

RICHMOND, Ind. (AP) - An effort to nominate Richmond High School for the National Register of Historic Places is raising concerns that the designation could prevent future changes to the building.

The Richmond Community Schools Board of School Trustees members say they will consider endorsing the nomination, but members tell the Palladium-Item they are concerned the designation would limit their ability to alter the building.

The school was built between 1938 and 1940 and was funded partially by the Public Works Administration and Works Progress Administration. City planner Scott Zimmerman says it's an "outstanding example of Colonial Revival Architecture" and is significant because it's the city's only public high school.

Zimmerman says changes can be made so long as the historical architecture is preserved or federal funds aren't used.