Plans for a new Lexington Middle School face an unexpected problem.
Lexington 1 has optioned the first 2 of 4 parcels. If the deal goes through, the 2 parcels would be bought for $1,594,575 for 33.57 acres – $47,500 an acre.
2 more parcels have yet to be optioned or bought for the school which will replace Lexington Middle School on SC6 and US 378.
A problem in negotiating with 1 of the 2 other property owners, the Chronicle has learned, may jeopardize the plan. The district needs all 4 to meet its need.
The site on the southeast side of Old Cherokee Road and Cherokee Trail ran into opposition due to heavy commuter traffic there on a narrow 2-lane road.
District and state transportation officials are seeking ways to relieve congestion from school traffic.
One solution may be additional space for stacking parents’ vehicles on site while dropping off and picking up students.
4 board members voted for buying the land. 
Board member Jada Garris voted against, and fellow board member Dr. Kyle Guyton recused himself as he has a medical practice across from the site.
The cost of the new middle school will be covered by a $365 million 5-year building plan approved by the voters last year.
County Councilman Darrell Hudson wrote on his Facebook page: “We need another school – there’s no question about that, but the way it’s handled in secrecy is unacceptable.”
District officials are considering holding public meetings to answer questions from critics, parents and the public.