Four Worcester Schools to Receive $12 Million in Improvements

Friday, June 05, 2015

GoLocalWorcester News Team

On Wednesday, the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) announced that four schools in Worcester will receive $12 million for infrastructure improvements provided by the MSBA’s Accelerated Repairs Program.

The four schools that will receive the funding include Flagg Street Elementary, Jacob Hiatt Magnate, Francis J. McGrath Elementary and Grafton Street Elementary School. All four schools will be receiving new doors and new windows. Grafton Street will also be receiving a new boiler.

“These projects represent our City’s commitment to our children and to our schools,” said Mayor Joe Petty. “These projects are going to make our schools safer and healthier for students while driving down our energy costs. I can’t wait for these projects to begin.”

Eighty percent of the $12 million investment will be funded through the MSBA. The City will provide the other 20 percent. Construction will begin next summer and will be completed by the start of the school year in 2016.

“The projects completed to date with funding from the MSBA and the City of Worcester have greatly improved energy efficiency and classroom comfort and these buildings are once again the highlight of their neighborhoods. The projects approved today continue our investments in our buildings and will also restore these buildings to their original beauty,” said Superintendent Melinda Boone. “I appreciate the support of both the MSBA and City of Worcester for their continued investment in our school buildings.”

Over the past three years, the MSBA has funded 20 projects at 17 schools in Worcester, contributing $55 million in city and state funding.

“A strong public education system is one of the cornerstones of a strong community, and having top-quality facilities is a major part of that,” said City Manager Ed Augustus. “I am thrilled that the Massachusetts Building Authority is able to help the city make this investment in our kids.”