Brady PieperVoters in Somerville, New Jersey, are in favor of both questions for a school bond referendum that will upgrade, renovate and modernize district facilities.
Somerville Public Schools announced that the infrastructure and facility-oriented bond has passed the threshold for approval, according to preliminary results.
Following this approval, the issuance of new school bond will deliver approximately $44 million in new funding for the district to address aging infrastructure, expand educational opportunities and renovate facilities at all schools.
While the last approved bond in Somerville was in 2004, the new referendum will allow the district to assess an estimated $14 per month more than residents’ previous net taxes. In support of the measure, the New Jersey legislature has also promised $7.3 million to the school district for various infrastructure projects.
Question one of the referendum seeks to fund significant improvements across the school district to enhance student learning environments, activities and security.
As the largest bond priority, this question includes major renovations at Somerville High School, such as updating science labs and the auditorium and several initiatives at Somerville Middle School, including security vestibules, air conditioning and heating system upgrades.
The first question also addresses Van Derveer Elementary School, including the construction of enhanced security features, a renovated multipurpose room and a new multi-sport turf field to serve the community.
The school bond’s second question requires the passage of the first question and focuses on funding a $20.8 million project at Somerville High School.
The bond funding will support the school’s renovation and expansion. The multi-phased project will construct a new 24,000-square-foot athletics facility that includes a new gymnasium, an athletic training facility, locker rooms, a weight room, a concession stand and a hall of fame.
The project is also expected to benefit community and recreational programs that utilize the high school’s space.
“This referendum is about enhancing our school facilities to continue providing Somerville students with the best possible academic, athletic and performing arts spaces,” Superintendent Gary Lubisco, Jr., said. “The projects included in this referendum were carefully chosen to maximize state aid and benefit current and future students.”
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