South Colonie residents voted on the school district’s $13.8 million capital project on Tuesday, Oct. 21, and the results were overwhelmingly in the project’s favor.
Poll numbers showed that 77 percent of voters approved the first two phases of the capital project. The project passed with a 610-186 vote, meaning that construction for the project will begin in summer of next year with a projected completion date of fall 2017. The last two phases of the project will be voted on in fall 2019.
“We couldn’t be happier,” said Superintendent Jonathan Buhner. “We are very thankful for the community support. We believe it’s a sound financial plan. We think it’s a great start, and really I always share with the people that these are their facilities. We try to come up with plans that will maintain their investments.”
Most of the improvements and renovations are necessary health and safety concerns, such as roofing systems, updated boilers and parking lots. Additional security cameras will be added for safety, and all schools will get upgraded public address systems.
Academic concerns will also be addressed with the funds, including necessary updates to the Roessleville and Forest Park Elementary schools’ libraries, while Colonie Central High School needs updated music, art and technology classrooms.
“The entire wing will be renovated to be aligned with new programs that are available for kids that will help prepare them for future jobs,” said Buhner. “We believe that the priorities of the project are very important for our kids.”
