Ripley Schoolhouse

The Ripley Schoolhouse Apartments, once a burden on the community, are now the focus of a collaborative effort led by the NCJC Foundation. Despite setbacks like vandalism, theft, and a destructive fire, our dedication to revitalizing this property and uplifting the Ripley community remains steadfast. With tens of thousands of dollars already invested in emergency response using Foundation funds, and millions more committed to restoring the building, the Foundation demonstrates a strong commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable living environment. By rallying support from stakeholders and utilizing grants and other funding, we aim to forge a brighter future for The Ripley Schoolhouse, ensuring that this property becomes a beacon of rejuvenation in the village's development.

The fire and hazardous material remediation has been successfully completed by Belfor, ensuring that the property is now safe and ready for the next phase. Moving forward, we will partner with GC3 to undertake a comprehensive restoration of the building. Our goal is to enhance the property beyond its pre-fire condition by updating both living and common spaces. In addition, we will address all existing code violations and implement improvements to ensure better accessibility in line with ADA standards. Throughout this process, we are committed to preserving the historical character and unique attributes of the structure. Our vision is to transform this building into a standout asset for the community, one that reflects both its rich heritage and modern advancements, ultimately becoming a source of pride for everyone involved.