JC School District purchased 34 properties near high school

The Jefferson City School District has purchased 34 properties that were in the path of the May tornado, with two more purchased awaiting board approval.

Spokeswoman Ryan Burns told ABC17 News the district has spent $1,054,133 so far on the properties, which are located near Jefferson City High School and Atkins Stadium.

In October, Burns said the Board of Education approved a budget amendment that allows the district to spend $2 million on land acquisition. Burns said this is a "one-time in-flow of money" because the district received more revenue than expected.

"While the district currently doesn’t have exact plans for how the property will be used, we do know we need additional space on campus for outdoor activities facilities such as baseball/softball, soccer, tennis, as well as additional instructional uses," Burns said in an email to ABC17 News.

"This land will give us the flexibility to provide these amenities when funds become available," Burns said.

The district started looking into buying the properties back in August to potentially expand the facilities.