Westfield High School was considered for renovation about seven years ago.
WESTFIELD – The School Committee has approved application to the state’s School Building Authority seeking funding to construct a $6 million science wing at Westfield High School.
The request will focus on creation of new science classrooms, related laboratories and storage space under a SBA reimbursement program for such projects. If approved, Westfield could receive 59 percent reimbursement on the project cost, said Maintenance Director Frank B. Maher Jr.
WHS principal Raymond K. Broderick said the project will address “long-standing issues at our school and provide flexibility in and creation of additional science curriculum.”
The proposal will be presented to the City Council Jan. 5 for endorsement to present a formal request to SBA.
“Our outdated science labs have been an issue for years,” said Broderick.
“This will allow some renovation of the school and begin to address issues of insufficient space for music, gym, science and central office,” the principal said.
The high school had been a focus for an estimated $37 million renovation and addition project in 2003 - 2004 but following a state-wide moratorium on school projects the focus is now on elementary school construction and renovation. Westfield recently gained state approval for a new $36 million elementary school to be built at Ashley and Cross streets next year.
Maher said the SBA science initiative “will allow us the chance to invest in a building that is sound in structure and lacking in up-to-date services and facility.
“The high school is in great shape but there are needs there and if approved this project will begin to address those needs,” Maher said.
Mayor Daniel M. Knapik, chairman of the School Committee, said he supports the project, noting that the concept is to put the science labs outside the main building. a number of high schools in the Commonwealth fit this need. It is a cost-effective way to address the need.”