Hornell school residents to vote on $32 million capital project
Michael T. Baldwin Reports
While voters will cast a variety of ballots on November 8th, in the City of Hornell, school district residents ‘will be asked to vote on a $32 million capital project proposal to address several needs identified in the district’s 2018-19 Facilities Comprehensive Plan. The multi-year plan to make necessary facility improvements and enhancements and realized cost savings will be brought forth to voters in three Phases.’
The first phase will come under voter scrutiny on December 20th when polls will be open from noon until 9 p.m. Phase 1 focuses on classroom renovations, roofs, turf replacement and installation of new tennis courts. The majority of the work will be focused on improvements at the Intermediate School. Renovations will reconfigure classroom sizes, as well as renovate the main office and nurse’s office, and modernize mechanical and electrical equipment throughout the building. To maintain the number of classrooms the building has currently, a two-story classroom addition is also included in the proposed scope. According to the District, “in a May 2022 budget vote exit poll, 72% of respondents supported the proposed renovations for the Intermediate School building.”
Classroom renovations are also planned at the High School. The Grade 7-8 wing will be updated including the bathrooms. The turf will be replaced to avoid more costly issues from deterioration in the future. The existing tennis courts are severely damaged and currently condemned. The reconstruction of the courts would benefit both our student-athletes and the greater Hornell community.
Officials tell the public that last summer, North Hornell completed construction on the school’s Pre-K wing, adding four additional classrooms to the building, as well as updating all corridor finishes, and a new playground. This proposal replaces the north entry canopy, as well as an aging roof.
In information offered to the public, the second Phase proposal is planned to be put before voters in 2023 or 2024. Potential scope of work in Phase 2 includes updates to the high school gym and athletic facilities. The upgraded gym will feature spaces that can better accommodate various competitions and large group events. Plans also include updates to training rooms, locker rooms, and the installation of a walking track for community use. In the same May 2022 exit poll, 66% of respondents supported the proposed work at the high school. The final Phase of the 10-year facilities improvement plan is estimated to be put before voters in 2027. The vote that will occur on Dec. 20 will only contain scope identified in Phase 1.
Existing capital project reserve funds would cover costs; 0% tax increase projected.
