Plans move forward for historic school to become apartments in Lexington

LEXINGTON, N.C. — A major project is moving forward to bring new life to the historic Dunbar School in Lexington.

An $18 million plan will convert the former school into 66 workforce apartments and new community spaces. The project, led by Chapel Hill–based Belmont Sayre in partnership with the City of Lexington and Preservation NC, will preserve the building’s mid-century modern architecture while adding modern amenities.

The reimagined campus will feature studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with about 25,000 square feet of community space, including a repurposed auditorium, gymnasium, outdoor recreation areas and parking. Leasing is expected to begin in August 2026.

Built in 1951, Dunbar School was named after poet Paul Laurence Dunbar and served the city’s Black community