Bernards To Get $8.2M In School Construction Funding From State

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township School District will be getting new funding under a state grant to address critical facilities needs.

On Sept. 7, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) announced the approval of nearly $450 million in school construction funds for 261 school districts throughout the state.

Bernards Township School District will get $8,218,120 from the state for the project which costs $20,545,299, according to the state.

Superintendent Nick Markarian said he was "pleased" with the funding awarded to the district.

"The projects we hope to accomplish are focused on roofing and HVAC," Markarian told Patch.

"This funding is part of a state and local partnership that will invest in hundreds of school projects while saving a significant amount of taxpayer dollars. Coupled with an infusion of local funding, this collaboration will generate more than $1 billion in important upgrades to schools throughout New Jersey," Gov. Phil Murphy said. "Ensuring our students receive a world-class education in a first-rate learning environment while relieving the pressure on local taxpayers is a top priority of my Administration."

The NJDOE selected the school projects based on need, such as essential building systems upgrades like the repair or replacement of structural components, mechanical/heating and cooling, and electrical systems; building roofs; and to resolve building code issues.

The funding will provide for numerous high-priority upgrades including 320 HVAC systems, 79 boilers or water heaters, and 211 roofs.

"This funding demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing safe, modern learning environments," Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education said in a statement. "In addition, improving the physical and safety conditions of school buildings improves working conditions for teachers and elevates the pride and support of the school community as a whole. This funding will benefit countless students in hundreds of schools throughout New Jersey."

Funding for the school construction initiative was made possible through legislation signed in 2022 and grant funding from SDA allocations.

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