Plans are underway to build a memorial at the site of the historic Ridgewood Cemetery in Tampa.

In 2019, Hillsborough County Public Schools was told there might be a cemetery underneath the grounds of King High School.

A survey was done and ground penetrating radar found about 145 graves. Archaeologists believe a majority of them belong to African Americans.

Last year, the Florida legislature approved funding for the district to build a memorial at the site.

"It will be a permanent marker and also gives a history lesson," said Jerel McCants, the architect asked to design the project.

McCants presented his idea on Monday to a committee.

He showed renderings of a white marble statue with bronze wings, uplifted, symbolizing a dove taking flight.

The memorial would have a reflection pond and markers at each burial site. He said they will be respectful and careful not to disturb any graves.

"There needs to be a sensitivity to what you're doing to the land and then be sensitive to what was there. So as architects you want to try to blend those two," he said. "That was my first decision was not to build something on top of what is known to be burials."

McCants said he wants the memorial to be a place both students and the general public can reflect and enjoy.

"Because once you understand the meaning behind it, then I'm hoping people can gravitate to it and look at it as being a unique piece that is giving homage to those interred there."

The school district plans to get public input on the memorial before finalizing the plan.​