$45 million improvement project under way in New Jersey district
Key Highlights
- The former La Grande Elementary is being repurposed as a pre-K center.
- The work will upgrade HVAC, electrical and fire alarm systems, and install air conditioning in all district schools.
- Voters approved a $44.8 million bond to pay for the improvements and expansion.
The Scotch Plains-Fanwood (New Jersey) district is moving forward with its $45 million improvement project.
The Courier-News reports that the project includes:
- Upgrading HVAC, electrical and fire alarm systems across all schools, as well as universal air conditioning.
- Buying the former La Grande Elementary School building in Fanwood to serve as one location for all pre-K classes, freeing up nine classrooms across the elementary schools and easing space constraints.
"These upgrades benefit every student in the district and will free up much-needed space in our elementary schools by moving all pre-kindergarten classes to La Grande Elementary School," said Superintendent Joan Mast.
Voters approved a $44.8 million bond referendum in January to address space issues and provide upgrades. The school district will receive $11.4 million in state aid to offset the local tax impact.
The school board has approved Epic Management to oversee the La Grande work. First-floor demolition and renovations at La Grande are expected to begin this fall and be completed before the start of the 2026-27 school year.