Ground broken in Opelika for Fox Run School expansion

Ground is broken on a $40 million expansion of Fox Run School in Opelika, Friday, May 1, 2026 – Photo from Opelika City Schools

OPELIKA, Ala. (WAKA) – Officials with Opelika City Schools have broken ground for a major expansion at Fox Run School.

A ceremony was held Friday, May 1, on the $40 million project that will transform the school in order to bring all fifth and sixth-grade students to the Fox Run campus. Currently, the school serves about 410 students in 28 classrooms. After the work is complete, Fox Run will be able to teach 1,200 students in 59 classrooms.

In January, the Opelika City Council and the Opelika Board of Education approved the project, in response to projected growth in the city over the next decade. Opelika City Schools is one of only 16 school systems in the state to experience growth in enrollment.

Construction is scheduled to begin later this month and is expected to take approximately 14 months to complete. The estimated $40 million cost will be equally funded through cash reserves of both the city and the school system.

The expansion is expected to open for students in the 2027-2028 school year, when all fifth and sixth grade students will attend class at Fox Run.

“This project represents the first phase of a smart, long-term plan,” Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith said. “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,” Dr. Davis said. “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 and families.”

— Information from Opelika City Schools