Site work and new construction of a mixed-use development in Elkville, Illinois. Design plans call for the construction of a 48,000-square-foot educational facility; and for site work for a educational facility.

The Elverado Community Unit School District 196 is pursuing the construction of a new Pre-K through 8th grade school to replace three aging facilities: Elkville Primary (1949), Vergennes Elementary/Elverado Intermediate (1959), and the Junior High (1940, originally a WPA project). The existing buildings show significant wear, including structural cracks and outdated infrastructure, reflecting over 20 years of deferred state funding. In April 2025, voters approved a referendum allowing the district to issue $11 million in bonds to fund the new school. The facility will be built adjacent to the current high school, consolidating all district operations onto a single campus while maintaining age-appropriate separation between student groups. The proposed design includes: Separate classroom wings for different age groups A dedicated gymnasium and commons area A layout that avoids mixing younger students with older ones A drive and parking area separating the new school from the high school The project aims to streamline operations, reduce long-term costs, and modernize learning environments. However, post-referendum assessments revealed that the $11 million budget may be insufficient, prompting the district to reassess funding strategies and project scope. As of September 19, 2025, planning and funding reassessment phase. Construction timeline pending revised cost estimates and potential additional funding sources.