Bids Being Advertised For Westfield School Auditorium Renovations

WESTFIELD, NJ — Nearly one year ago, voters in Westfield approved a bond referendum to renovate the aging auditoriums in both Roosevelt and Edison Intermediate Schools, which are 89 years old and 57 years old respectively.

Prior to the Jan. 26 bond referendum, the Westfield Board of Education received confirmation from the State of New Jersey that 40 percent of the $4 million cost of the projects qualified for rebate by the State, thus reducing the cost to the Westfield taxpayer.

Bids for both schools are being advertised by the Board of Education on December 22. Work is expected to begin in the summer of 2017.

With close to 1,600 students in both schools, the auditoriums are utilized on a regular basis for music and choral classes, drama classes, assemblies, concerts, plays, and also are a source of revenue for rental opportunity. With the addition of air conditioning, they will be used as a center for multiple learning during the hot weather.

Major aspects of the renovations will include: Replacement of seats, including barrier free seats; replacement of sound system; installation of acoustical treatments; electrical and lighting upgrades, including stage lighting; replacement of flooring; and installation of air conditioning.

“We are pleased that plans are moving ahead to transform the timeworn Roosevelt and Edison auditoriums as effective functioning venues for learning and performing,” stated Superintendent of Schools, Margaret Dolan. “We continue to be thankful to the Westfield community for its support of our schools, and we look forward to inviting the public to join us when we celebrate the completed renovations in our intermediate schools auditoriums next year,” added Dr. Dolan.

— By Lorre Korecky

(Photos provided)

Photo 1: Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield will undergo renovations to its auditorium, which turns 90 years old in 2017. This artist’s rendering reflects one aspect of the change – the balcony area -- including new seating to replace those installed in 1926. The rendering pays tribute to the time period in which the school was built while providing much needed modern upgrades.

Photo 2: With 40% funding from the State, the Westfield Board of Education will move forward with its approved bond referendum to renovate its aging intermediate school auditoriums. Here is an artist’s rendering facing the stage in the Edison auditorium and also displaying acoustical panels on side walls to diffuse sound back to the audience.

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