Group interested in creating shared-space business hub at former Hillcrest school

If Sandi Boucher gets her way, the former Hillcrest High School will be the envy of Thunder Bay’s business community.

Boucher, a consultant with Meno Bimahdizewin, is part of a group looking to turn the vacant high school into a shared-space business hub where local businesses and agencies can share resources and network under one roof.

From a gymnasium to child care, Boucher said the idea is taking off in major Canadian cities and would be a chance for Thunder Bay to show that it’s innovative.

"I think you’re looking at the future for Thunder Bay," Boucher said during an interview with reporters outside of the former school Monday afternoon. "My vision is this building will become the one building in Thunder Bay where everyone wished that they worked in."

The group will hold an information session in the next two weeks to discuss its plans for the school and generate interest, which is something Boucher said she’s already seen a lot of.

"Based on the interest I definitely think it’s a possibility," she said. "There’s a lot of interest in the business community. No one wants to be tearing down old buildings and looking at the expense of building new."

Accessibility would be one of the group's top priorities and has plans for elevator access. More will be discussed at the group's information session.

Lakehead Public Schools spokesman Bruce Nugent said the potential sale of Hillcrest High School is a closed-session matter and he could not comment until a deal is reached.