Bridgewater-Raritan To Get $7M In School Construction Funding From NJ

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater-Raritan Regional 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.

Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District will get $7,098,122 from the state for the project which costs $17,745,304, according to the state.

"I am ecstatic that our district has received this significant award for essential projects within the district. Rarely do we have the opportunity to collect nearly 40 percent of the construction cost. This is a testament to the work of the business department, led by Mr. Peter Starrs, whose planning allowed these projects to be submitted while maintaining capital reserve at the amounts necessary to make this happen," Superintendent Robert Beers said.

Specifics on the approved projects have not been shared just yet but Beers said the district is "eagerly awaiting more details."

"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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