It could be months before the Bethel Park School District knows if it will get the go-ahead to build a new high school.

Should it get the thumbs-up, however, officials plan to be ready.

"We have had some meetings at their [the school district's] request, to go over 'what-if' plans," said Bethel Park municipal planner Jerry Duke.

"Their intent, if they get approval, is to go forward with the [building] application as soon as possible."

Bethel Park School District approached the municipality's Zoning Planning Board on May 5 to request a variance. Years earlier, the 80 acres where the current high school sits had been rezoned as conservation district land.

Major construction --including a new school or renovation --will require a variance.

The board turned down the request, prompting the district to file an appeal in the Allegheny County courts.

David Toal, attorney for the district, said he expects a decision "within the next few months."

Before a decision is made, however, he is expected to meet in conference with municipal solicitor Chuck Knoll, where they might provide the court with any additional information concerning the appeal.

The property on Church Road was re-zoned when BladeRunners ice arena was built in 1995. BladeRunners' property recently went on sale for $4.15 million.