The Site
Long admired for the classic simplicity of its “schoolhouse Georgian” architecture and its idyllic campus, Lowe’s Grove School stands as a monument to the importance of agriculture and education in the history of our community. Established 113 years ago, it is Durham’s first and only remaining farm life school. By 1915, Lowe’s Grove was operating as a year-round residential school that included a 154-acre farm. In 1922, Lowe’s Grove received national acclaim for progressive education in Colliers Weekly.
Even though it has suffered from nearly two decades of “demolition by neglect,” Lowe’s Grove remains an oasis of calm and beauty amid the frenetic pace of high-tech Research Triangle Park. Experts agree that all of the buildings can be saved.
The Project
In February 2003, the NC 54/I-40Transit Corridor Feasibility Study,Phase I, prepared by Martin/Alexiou/Bryson, PLLC for the Triangle Transit Authority designated Lowe’s Grove for a “Key Activity Center” BRT transit station with “potential for mixed-use development.” This plan would have fulfilled that vision, however, the site's owner, Durham County, instead chose to build a branch library on the site.