OPELIKA, Ala. – On January 20, 2026, the Opelika City Council approved a resolution for a project agreement between the City of Opelika and the Opelika City Board of Education to expand and improve Fox Run School in response to projected residential and population growth across the city and county over the next decade.
“This is a project agreement with the City Board of Education for improvements to Fox Run School, which consists of $20 million to basically meet them halfway for construction costs, up to $20 million. If it’s less, the city’s share would be less”, said City Attorney Robbie Treese as he addressed the council.
This is a 50-50 partnership with 20 million alocated from the city of Opelika, and 20 million from Opelika City Schools.
Opelika City Schools has experienced an increase in students with a 10% increase since 2021, particularly at Fox Run School.
Opelika City Schools is one of 16 school systems in the State of Alabama to experience growth based on increased enrollment. The project will increase Fox Run’s capacity from 410 students to approximately 1,200 students, creating space to bring all Opelika fifth and sixth-grade students onto a single campus.
The collaborative effort ensures adequate instructional space for current and future students amid sustained community growth.
“The city has been growing rapidly with lots of development, and lots of residential development. This represents a tremendous opportunity and an investment in, of course, education for the children of Opelika”said Treese.
“This is a substantial amount of money clearly, but the city’s got that money invested and earmarked for this project” added Treese.
Construction is scheduled to begin in late May 2026 and is expected to take
approximately 14 months to complete. The estimated $40 million cost will be
jointly and equally funded through the City of Opelika and Opelika City Board
of Education’s cash reserves. Beginning with the 2027 school year, Fox Run will
serve all fifth and sixth-grade Opelika students.
“This project represents the first phase of a smart, long-term plan,” said
Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith. “Opelika is experiencing growth, and this
investment prepares us for the future. By collaborating with our school
system, we are ensuring that families who choose to live, work, and raise
children here will continue to have access to excellent educational facilities.”
Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Davis emphasized the educational significance of the project.
“The expansion at Fox Run gives us flexibility, room to grow, and modern space to support our teachers and students,” said Dr. Davis. “As enrollment increases, this project and future building projects ensure we can meet academic needs without disruption. We are grateful for the city’s support and proud of this shared commitment to students, employees and families.”
“The Fox Run project marks a proactive step toward managing population
growth while continuing to strengthen the city’s educational infrastructure.
The joint investment underscores the importance of strategic planning and
community partnership”, said the City of Opelika in a press release.
